Hallo

Markie stands tall in his favorite astronaut shirt. He has big black eyes and dark brown hair. "I am a grown-up today!" Markie says. "I do not need any help."

Markie puts on his shoes all by himself. He marches around the room. Stomp, stomp, stomp! "I am brave and strong like Daddy," he shouts.

Mommy reaches for Markie's hand. Markie pulls away fast. "No holding hands," says Markie. "Big grown-ups walk alone."

Markie runs very fast outside. Zoom, zoom, zoom! He looks up at the sky. He does not look at the ground.

Trip! Bam! Markie falls down hard. He scrapes his little knee on the path. "Ouchie!" cries Markie. It hurts a lot.

Markie holds his sore knee. He feels very small and sad. Being a grown-up is not fun right now. He wants his Mommy and Daddy.

Mommy and Daddy run to Markie. They pick him up for a big hug. Mommy kisses the boo-boo to make it better. Markie feels safe.

Markie snuggles deep into Daddy's arms. "I still need you," Markie whispers. Even brave astronauts need hugs. It is good to be a little kid.