Today I took my youngest (under 2 yrs old) to the park. We did the usual park stuff - slides, swings, jungle gyms. As I bought a ticket for one of the rides, I noticed that they were also selling balloons. Since it was only 75 cents, I bought a balloon, too.
As I handed him the balloon, his face lit up and he said "Thank you Mommy balloon!" Usually, I am the one prompting him to thank other adults for things that they have given him, so it was such a pleasant surprise to be thanked immediately and without prompting.
Altogether, we had a nice time and I basked in the glow of the experience as we headed back to the car. As I buckled him into the car seat, he said "big hug, Mommy." Again, I was pleasantly surprised by his expression of affection and gratitude and I leaned in and gave him a big bear hug. As I pulled away, he had his lips puckered up for a kiss and I happily obliged.
Memories like these are so precious, and I am so glad that I took a little time out today to help create a wonderful experience for us both.
