Stages of dependency

Growing up has a lot to do with becoming independent.
(For most of us, anyways.)

Six months already, and Daniel is on his own, watching the world, interpreting it for himself, and exploring it at his leisure.

But then when hard times come, he does a complete turn around, and nothing less than 100% Mommy time will do.

And what about Matthew?

He still enjoys moments of helping Mommy in the kitchen (ie. getting underfoot) and still needs long cuddle times. Most of all he needs Mommy (or Daddy, who's even better) to give a listening ear to his stories, which take so long to be translated in his little head from thoughts to words.

But he needs his freedom to stretch out his wings, so he can flap madly behind his older siblings in a desperate attempt to keep up.

Nathan has found so many things he can do himself that he is just a step or two short of manhood. (That is; full independence from his mother.) He's far too busy to tag along hanging on apron strings.

As for telling Mommy stories and asking many questions, even Daddy does that, so that gets done a lot.
Sickness or tiredness, however, will still bring out a need for some Mommy time. (But Daddy probably does the same too, he just doesn't tell anyone.)

And Melanie has the least need for a mother. She's far too busy mothering three brothers (and countless other imaginary dependents) to have time for needing a mother.

Except when she's hungry, tired, bored, lonely, sad, angry, etc.

Isn't it great to feel useful?