I understand, little buddy. Really, I do. You are reaching for new things, new abilities, that are just outside your grasp. You are stretching and striving for one thing: the next step. I know how that feels. I’ve been there before, myself. Am there now, actually.
I’m all grown up, though, and I’ve learned to contain those strivings. Contain them and harness them. You, unfortunately, know only how to fuss. Fuss for that one thing that brings you peace and quietude. Fuss for your mommy’s arms, where your cheeks are kissed, your toes are tickled and your tummy gobbled. Where you are near a voice that sings and talks and imitates your commentary on your little world.
But that isn’t really what you want from me, either. You just want to be up. Up where you can see this fascinating world at its own level. You’re tired of being stuck on the floor with a couple of toys. Tired of only being able to roll over. You stretch for things just beyond your reach, refuse to accept your limitations and fight for those few inches. I see it in your eyes and in the way you try so hard to pull your knees under you. I hear it in the frustration of your cry.
You want to move. And even Ribbit isn’t as interesting as whatever lies just beyond your reach. And you, little boy, precious little baby boy, have a determination of spirit that will be a joy to see as it develops.
In the meantime, I’m exhausted and going to bed.
Watching children learn and, yes, struggle to learn is a joy no matter how old, or young. And, yes, sometimes frustrating too. My youngest is up and walking; I missed the opportunity to watch him. He was in Haiti. Right now he is learning how to grab hold of his emotions, contain and harness them. Unfortunately, all he knows how to do is act them out.
And, I am exhausted too. Wait. It isn’t even lunch time. I have 8 heads of cabbage to chop, blanche and freeze. My house is a mess. I never thought I would miss the slowness of winter. But, my spirit needs a break.
Every stage is exciting, and brings its own challenges, too.
I ran across your blog today and thought you might be interested in my most recent post, Homeschooling Defense, at http://www.bedlamorparnassus.blogspot.com.
I shared it with a friend of mine whose wife homeschools, and he appreciated it very much.
Enjoy!
Steve a.k.a. Magister Christianus