On dandelions and growing up

 

The other day, I had this sudden realization that Ande doesn't suck his thumb anymore.

I can't even remember the last time I saw him do it.

Sucking his thumb used to be necessary for many daily activities like nap time, riding in the car, reading, watching a show, going to bed...

When did he stop? 

I know this is, in actuality, a good thing.

I definitely didn't want my son sucking his thumb sitting at his Kindergarten desk.

I definitely didn't look forward to figuring out the best technique for breaking him of the habit.

I never expected him to just give it up on his own.

I should be shouting, "hallelujah!" but instead, I'm feeling like "why the heck does my baby have to grow up?"

I'm so proud of the new "independence" that he has recently developed,

but I'm starting to forget what he was like as a baby and a toddler.

I keep thinking I should have taken more pictures, or recorded more videos.

What used to be a squishy, soft baby is now a long and lanky boy.

Maybe this is why the Duggar's keep having babies...

Why do they have to grow up so fast? Any tips on how I can slow down the clock?