Growing

Even as an infant, Jadon didn’t
Like hugs. We called him
Our porcupine, he was so prickly,
Or octopus, because arms and legs
Kicked out at those trying to get close.

He was standing in the kitchen
And I gave him a hug.
My son, up to my chin,
Almost my equal in weight.
He said, “Yuck!” and brushed himself off.