It's official...he's finally walking

Jacob has FINALLY decided to do more walking that crawling.

At 17 months, it's about time.

I've tried so hard to give him the space he needs to be himself. I've given myself pep talks for months now:

He'll walk when he wants to.
Let him decide when he wants to walk.
Kids don't need to fit into a standardized developmental schedule - they are all individuals.
It's easier and faster for him to crawl.

BUT, can I tell you how many pairs of his pants have the knees ripped on them? Can I tell you how frustrating it is when we're at a public restroom and I can't put him on the ground? Can I tell you how filthy he gets from crawling around on the dirt, grass, sand, cement in our backyard?