Spring has come early to Michigan. This whole winter has been warm and wonderful compared to the two former winters where we got pounded with snow. Because it's warmer, we've been able to get outside more. The birds are chirping and the bugs are clearly heard now. Little patches of grass are greening up and buds are forming on the tree. I think they don't know that it's only March. It's fun watching things growing and changing, especially my little Cora. I forgot how much Cora loves being outside, and it's been sweet to watch her get out and play. I'm already noticing a lot of differences in her compared to last spring/summer. A lot of her personality is the same Cora I've know since she was a tiny baby, but now it's coming out more in the her little conversations and her decisions. It comes out when she laughs at things she thinks are funny and when she looks or studies something she is curious about or trying to figure out. It's also comes out in her interests and in her hobbies. Cora is still active and determined, qualities that will be her greatest strengths and greatest weaknesses at times too. She loves running and moving and rarely sits to do anything except watch a "show." I think that's why she loves being outside--lots of fresh air and space to run and be loud. I know there will be times that require Cora to be still and focused, but for now, I let her run and play as much as she can, because these days go quick. In the mean time, we practice being still and focused while we read books and pray to Jesus.
Cora's determination never ceases to amaze me. Often time she gets a "plan" in her head of what she wants to accomplish and does everything in her power to carry it out. For example, she wanted the tarp off of her playground in our backyard and managed to get half of it off herself. The only thing she was unable to do is LIFT the playground and UNTIE the ropes, she did manage to pull the loose parts free and made it much easier for me. She worked on this for about 15 minutes, which is a long time for an ACTIVE 2 year old to do anything. It was such a small moment, but I felt like it was a glimpse of a future driven Cora doing everything she could to accomplish her goals. With determination, though, comes a strong will at times...determined to have her way. I relate to her SO much in this way. This part of Cora is something I see in myself... Something I still struggle with. So with Cora, I think it will be a balance of letting her make and carry out her goals while obeying Mom and Dad (and Jesus).
Finally, I'm seeing a sweet and delicate side of Cora that is all girl and so much fun. Cora has always been sensitive, but usually if she felt embarrassed or if she got in trouble. Now I am seeing her sensitivity in a new light. She notices and even senses emotion now. (I'm working on my negative emotions (disappointment, anger, frustration, worry, etc...) so that they don't affect her negatively.) She's sweet and caring towards all animals and bugs and babies. She is constantly showering me and daddy with compliments and affirmations like, "I lub you so much!" "You're da best eva!" "Das my fabrite." "I sit by you mama?" "Can I come too?" "Can I help you?" I notice that she often will share her toys with me or bring me a fruit snack if she is getting herself one too. Sweet little things. She loves pink, princesses, jewelry, and dresses. She'd probably wear her Easter dress every day of the week if I let her. Sweet and delicate...
It's been fun watching all the growing and changing around here. I can't wait until it's even warmer and we can be outside almost every day. Looking forward to our time in FL in April where we will have lots of outside time too.
No comments:
Post a Comment