Every parent, I’m sure, relishes in the moment their child learns how to hug. I know I definitely did those many months back when I could feel Theo giving me a tiny, baby hug. He gives the best hugs and I just thought I should write this down so I don’t forget years from now when he can’t stand giving his Mama a hug (tear, tear). Yesterday we were on the subway and he just leaned over and gave me the best hug. He does this thing where he pats you on the back several times while he’s hugging you. It’s adorable. And then today, I was doing the dishes, and he came up to my leg (which he does often), and gave me two big hugs. He walked away and then came back and gave two to my other leg. Even better is when he adds a, “Mama!”, to it. I just simply want to squeeze him to pieces. I say this all the time, and I guess it should be said all the time, I am so, so, so thankful that he is healthy and happy. Through the ups and downs of learning how to be a parent, and dealing with the struggles of a toddler, I can’t say that I would trade any of it. For that hug and that “Mama” and those smiles and giggles, I will take the challenges, as well.