What's in a Name?

Jack is growing and maturing by leaps and bounds these days.  Since birth he's always been a little timid, a little shy, and a little afraid to try new things.  He's a lot like me, actually.  Rather than jump into life, we've always had to drag him a little.  I've had several people lately tell me that kids change a lot between age 4 and Kindergarten, but I didn't think that would be Jack.  I was sure we'd still have to pry him off our legs on the first day of school.  He's certainly proven me wrong.  One day this past week when Mark was dropping of the kids at preschool, Jack asked him if he could go into his room all by himself.  And he did.  With no crying.  He just walked into his room, took his coat off and started playing.  If you know Jack or his history, you'd know how incredible this is.  Of course I hated that he'd cry and hang on me when it was time to leave every morning, but a part of me also liked that he still needed and wanted me.  I'm so glad that he's found the confidence to do things on his own, but I can't help but think it will be a very short time until he will be embarrased to be seen with me or no longer wants to hug me in front of his friends.  That breaks my heart just a little.

In Pre K, he's learning about the letters and the sounds they make and how to write them.  I can't believe how much his writing has improved in a short time, but more importantly, his attitude is one of perseverance and excitement about learning.  Previously, if something was too hard or he didn't get it right the first time, he used that as an excuse to give up.  Now, I see him diligently working on his letters at the chalkboard (that post will be coming up soon) and proudly showing us how well he's doing.  As a result, he can now write his name! 

There have been many milestones for Jack over the last several years and because he was a preemie, some were harder fought for him, but for some reason I can't describe, this milestone surprised me a little.  I'm not an especially emotional person, but like walking into his preschool room by himself, this is just another sign of his independence.  I'm so proud of  him and all that he's accomplished lately, but he's certainly not a baby anymore.  And that breaks my heart a little too.