Cognizant of her Growing Independence or Just Naturally Affectionate?

Andrina is so affectionate lately! She's always been a cuddly baby and will give me a hug whenever I ask for one but lately she's inviting so much affection on her own. Two days ago she melted my heart (again!) by spontaneously saying "night night" to me and kissing me. Yesterday and today she has been coming up to me and giving me many hugs too without me asking her to. Today we met my friend Meredith and her daughter Amelia at the children's museum and Meredith noticed how affectionate Andrina is. So many times Andrina would be playing then come and give me a hug then go right back to playing. So is she just ever more aware of her own independent state from me and therefore is needy as a reflection of her current emotional development? Or is she just a sweet and loving child who really loves her mommy? I'll just say it's both and savor all of her sweet hugs and kisses that I can't get enough of! I hope they keep coming!