Samuel is turning four in three weeks, and oh what a blessing he’s been to my heart. The joy has been non-stop since his birth. And yet, there’s been a slight pinch in my soul recently that I’m trying to process. “Samuel Sandwiches” are no longer a thing, and after a recent tickle fight and attempted game of “This little piggy went to market,” Samuel informed me that he doesn’t want to do “baby things” anymore.

All righty, then, Mr. Samuel. Message received. You’re growing up, and I need to let that happen. Thankfully, he still lets me cuddle with him as he’s falling asleep during pizza-movie night, but I’m sure the days of that great delight are numbered, too. Still, I will love him without measure every stage of his journey while I’m on this planet—just the way he needs to be loved. That, too, is part of the joy. And it makes me have to grow up, too.