For the last several years, I have had the honor of being able to watch my friend's daughter 2 days a week and while I think I have helped teach her some important things (like her ABC's and her 123's and how to shake, shake, shake her booty) I can guarantee you that she has taught me a whole lot more.
This is a summary of what I have learned from her:
- When you are mad-let it out! Don't hold it in-eventually you'll explode or implode-either way, not good-definitely not good!
- When you're happy-let it be known!
- It is good to belly laugh
- It's good to dance when the urge strikes
- Some days, it really is just fine to stay in your jammies, watch movies, eat popcorn (and other junk food that you may particularly enjoy) *Important note here- I said "somedays". NOT everyday.
- When you are scared, let someone know-it's okay. Example: One summer morning, H.G. and I were sitting on the back porch watching an approaching storm. She was sitting on my lap and we were chatting and giggling about the wind and rain and lightning when a very loud clap of thunder sounded-she immediately turned around, hugged me as tight as she could and said "Aunt Carol! Hold me tight! I'm scared!!!!" And I did. And she was fine then.
- Have I mentioned it is good to belly laugh? I don't think that can ever be said enough...
- When you are sad, it is okay to cry.
- If someone has hurt your feelings, tell them. They can't apologize or explain something they've said or done if they have no idea that there is anything wrong. Give them a chance. Most people are not intentionally being jerks.
- Don't be afraid to try new things or try doing things by yourself! You will never ever find out what you are capable of if you don't make the attempt!
- On the other hand, don't be afraid to ask for help. Sometimes life is hard. Sometimes you need your friends.
- If you love someone, tell them. (it's good to throw in a great big bear hug too!)
- Some days, we have to remember to be grateful for the little things. Example: H.G. and I were just kind of having a blah day, nothing was really wrong but nothing was incredibly fabulous either. We were getting ready to play a game and I had just finished cutting out some cards for us to use. She sat down next to me on the floor and very proudly exclaimed, "YAY Aunt Carol! You used the big girl scissors all by yourself and you didn't get any boo boos! I am so proud of you!!" Well, let me just tell you, my day went from being blah to fabulous in about 10 seconds!
- If you are being ridiculous, and really have no idea why, take a nap. Seriously. Never ever underestimate the power of a little sleep. It works wonders.
- And lastly, if you are being ridiculous and the nap thing has not worked, just realize that some days, you are going to be a pinhead. And that's okay-your people will still love you. More importantly, ALWAYS remember-you need to allow others to be pinheads from time to time too. It goes both ways.
Well, these are my life lessons from my toddler friend. It has been an adventure I hope neither one of us ever forgets-she has been a blessing to me and I wish her well as she heads off to preschool!
Love ya Havah Grace!!!!
Oh, and don't forget to belly laugh. Never ever forget to do that.
this is beautiful, carol. i even feel sad about you and h.g. not seeing each other as much. :( and, may i say that you really do need to write more. i love your way with words.....
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