Food fight

Lately Charlie has been really weird at mealtimes; spitting food out even though he's eaten about half of it or just not eating what's on his table. I know it's his independence and wish to assert himself but sometimes it makes me feel like I'm failing him. I want him to eat but he's not game and it worries me which makes me try to coerce him which makes him fight harder. 

Tonight he squeezed his food packet all over both of us and in a moment of frustration I snatched it away and put the lid on it. We stared at each other and I felt my frustration just melt away. He doesn't know why he's turning down the food anymore than I do; he's not trying to be malicious, I had to remind myself.

Part of me wishes he could talk and tell me what he needs and wants, but he's already so big so fast! I want him to stay my sweet little baby boy! I cried a little bit tonight watching him play with his dad; he was interacting and mimicking Eric, throwing balls and laughing aloud. He's already so big but he's still so small.