The End of an Era

For the past decade in the corner of our living room has set this lovely basket, a gift from my mother-in-law. It has been there dutifully containing all things needed for changing diapers. The sound of its lid dropping is as familiar as the sound of the door closing. By my estimation it's opened about six times a day and then shut again.


Lately, the basket has been a bit neglected. Big John has nearly completed his training. I have to admit that after nearly thirteen years of changing little pants, I am a bit saddened by the whole thing. There's just something precious about those little legs and dimpled bottoms that I'm going to miss. But in another way it is a time of celebration. Independence. Growth. An important phase of training completed.

I woke up Sunday afternoon from my nap to quite a surprise! The basket was packed for its first
official picnic. The kids had done it all themselves- sandwiches, fruit, vegetables and even fresh baked cookies.
Many people comment what it relief it must be to no longer have to buy diapers. Honestly, it's been a strain at times to purchase diapers month after month. I'm figuring we have spent $7000-$8000 on diaper supplies through the years. But you know what? There's no price tag for the songs that have been sung, the trust that has been built, the bellies that have been tickled and the toes that have been kissed through the simple act of changing a diaper. Those moments are priceless.