My Little Artist

    Another normal day of keeping busy. I watched my rambunctious toddler run about, leaving behind mounds of messes that show everywhere he's been. I asked him if he'd like to play with Play Dough or some finger paints; obviously he chose the latter hence this cute little post. At first I did as we usually do when he paints, I gave him a page from his coloring book and he filled it in with the color that drew his attention the most in that moment.

    But this time was different, to me anyways. This time took me by surprise in the most delightful way. I was/am a very proud mommy. I watched my little cutie and noticed he seemed a bit bored with his pages full of puppies or cars. Not wanting to dim his love for creative/artsy things, I immediately searched for any blank white paper. Unfortunately, because we weren't home, (We were at my parents house for a visit because my dad recently had surgery and finally got released from the hospital.) I found that my parents house has no blank white papers. So, I improvised and grabbed the next best thing, paper plates!  

    His smile grew back again and his imagination was let loose. Cautiously loose, as he doesn't prefer slimy textures. Which makes me realize now as I'm writing this that he might enjoy paintbrushes much more. I plopped down a dollop from each color he has and sat back. One of my favorite parts of being a mother, or even just a parent in general, is getting to witness your child explore the world they're living in. Watching them thrive, even fail, and watching them try some more. I love getting to be there while his eyes light up with excitement and he lets out little happy dances when he can't contain his emotions. It's the best.
    Then he surprised me. At first I thought he was doing his usual scribbles and various lines dancing about the canvas, but not this time. This time he put some paint down and then told me, "look mom, a dog!", and showed me this:

    Call me crazy, but, I actually see a dog in his painting! A little purple doggie with a blue/green body. He said that red bit underneath the dog is his ball. I couldn't help but smile when I first saw it. So proud of my little Picasso in the making. Ohhh my heart. All the feels. I can't. Ugh. He is only 2 years old and already drawing little animals, wasn't expecting that, it's awesome!
   Then there's days like today where he is begging me to put up the kiddie pool so he can swim. Another day of exploring and growing, being a mother makes my heart feel so full.