***SIGH***

How did it happen? When did it happen?

Last night, as Meg ran down the street to play with her friend, I cried. Why you ask? Because, as she was walking up to their front door, she turned back to me and waved. It was so sweet and innocent, but broke my heart into a million little pieces. It's just a small reminder that Meg is growing up. I'm no longer her favorite play mate. Don't get me wrong, she still likes to play with me, but it's only if her friends aren't out playing. I'm second best now.

I'll take second best though if that is what I get. I know that I'll only slip farther and farther down her list as she gets older. I should be happy that she's out playing with her friends, developing wonderful friendships and having a blast, but part of me wants to keep her to myself. I don't want to share her. For 3 years, she was all mine. And, now I have to share.

I don't want to keep her to myself, but at the same time I'm not sure I'm ready for her to be so independent.

The two pictures below were taken after she got home from playing with her friends. She's growing up so fast. I never want to forget these precious moments!