Toddler Bed

So we converted Zoe's crib to a toddler bed.  Our little Houdini was always escaping her crib . . . by JUMPING OUT!!! In order to keep her from killing herself, we decided it was time.  

It was a little sad, since it's just another milestone that we're not quite ready for.  She is growing up just way too fast for us.  

Fortunately, I had the week off from work.  So, I was able to put Zoe to bed each night.  We got some really good bonding time, too.  But each night, Zoe would say, "Daddy sleep with Zoe." The bed was new to her, also.  She wanted that comfort of knowing we were near as she fell asleep.  It was very, very sweet.

So, I would "sleep" in the floor next to her bed, with my arm on her mattress.  She would hold my hand, or touch my arm to make sure I was sticking around.  When she would almost be asleep, I'd tell her I had to go.  What great moments!

But Zoe did very well her first week out of her crib.  It was definitely foreign to her, but she LOVES her new freedom.  She was jumping up on down on her "new" mattress.  Loving life, this little girl!!!

Turning 35

Yesterday, I turned 35 years old. And I feel great!  It may have been the most reflective year of my life, though.  Raising a daughter will do that for you, I suppose.  But it's also the timing.  I'm officially middle-aged.  That thought can't land softly on any mind, I wouldn't think.

But what I've been most reflective on is, what have I learned in my life? What have a observed?  What things (or people) have impacted me? And most importantly, probably, how can I help Miss Zoe to appreciate these things as she grows up?  

The thing about life, that I've learned, anyway is, you can learn from education.  Or you can learn from experience.  Human nature leans more toward the experience learning curve.  And it can be a teacher.  But a very harsh one.  One that leaves many a scar.  But even still, if you learn from your experiences, chalk it up as a victory.  

There are a few things from my life, so far, that I have learned and hope to teach Zoe.  

• You have the power to make someone's day or break their spirit
• Never be afraid to apologize
• Forgiveness is a low cost investment in your life
• Being kind is always an option
• Lifetime isn't as long as you think
• You cannot make everyone happy
• Be your harshest critic, but also the most forgiving one
• Be the change you want to see in others
• Giving up NEVER accomplishes anything
• You have to laugh at yourself
• Have your OWN opinions
• Don't let others or circumstances define who you are
• You are where you are today because of decisions you made yesterday

To me, these are truths. And I will work SO hard to make sure I remember them, and that Zoe does, too.