Tid Bits

The nuances of everyday life with Violet could only be captured with some kind of nonstop video surveillance. Which clearly isn't an option.

So here are a very few of the precious little things and moments that make life with her just magical:

1) Her new usage of the phrase "For ME?!" Always accompanied by big brown eyes, batting eyelashes and a huge smile. Irresistable. I dare you not to melt.

2) Her favorite (and non-fear-inducing) TV shows have become household staples. I love how she self-identifies and always "claims" a character as "herself". (Or Daniel assigns it for her). In SuperWhy, she is the Princess Presto. In Yo Gabba Gabba, she is the blue cat Tutti. She is constantly seeing herself in characters - books, movies, etc - and it's fascinating that it has nothing to do with skin color. She self-identifies based on gender or relationship to the other characters. If there's a mom and a daughter, regardless of color, it's me and her. If there's a boy and a girl, it's her and Daniel, even if the skin tones are reversed. So interesting.

3) She still says, "Oh, Man!" just like Swiper the Fox. And I will say this: It's very difficult to maintain a serious tone when she responds to, "Violet, this is your last chance - please clean up your shoes" with "Oh, Man!"

4) Violet is still a dancing machine. She just finds joy in it, whether or not there is music. But the new development is her singing - it's constant! And precious. Ring Around the Rosey, Twinkle Twinkle, Daisy Daisy, Itsy Bitsy Spider, ABCs, and more. That little voice is so high and sweet it's just impossible.

5) She recently transitioned to a new classroom at preschool, and said goodbye to her first real teachers, Ms. Sue and Ms. Carmen. They were more than sad to see her go (which is the nicest compliment a parent can receive!). It was a smooth transition though, and she already loves Ms. Mandy and Ms. Danielle.

6) The froggy potty was a flash in the pan and it was off her radar. We haven't returned to potty training since then, largely because she flat out says "no" if we ask her if she wants to try. But suddenly, she is interested again, but only in "Daniel's Potty". Multiple times over the past day or two she let's us know when she needs to go, she holds it, and successfully goes #1 and #2 in the big potty. She is so proud of herself that I think this time it just might stick!

7) Last but not even close to least... She switched from calling me "Mommy" to "Mama". It might not sound like a big deal, but any mother will tell you that there is a HUGE difference between those two labels. And to have her suddenly decide to call me Mama feels important... tender... sweet... and lovely in a whole new way. I adore it. And am unashamedly hoping this phase lasts a long, long time.

I could go on. But those are enough of the recent tid bits to give you a feel for what life's been like around here!