Fascinating Four

Gracie celebrated her birthday in November! (And yes, I realize it's January. But better late than never. And this post is really more about growth - rather than an age mark.) Gracie had a very eventful year as a three-year-old. She started preschool, took a dance class, became more acquainted with the time-out step, made us laugh with her silly comments and made us happy with her love for music and others.


I went with Gracie on her field trip to the Corn Maze and Farm. She has made many new friends in Preschool.


Gracie had a Butterfly Themed Birthday Party.


Gracie was really excited about her homemade butterfly cake with the crooked smile! :)



The highlight of Gracie's party was FREEZE DANCE. The kids really liked it. And yes, that's my child yelling, "Party like a Rock Star!" Not sure where she picked up on that one. I'm pretty sure I don't use that phrase on a regular basis...or ever. :)



I have often heard people talk about the "terrible two's". Everyone I have spoken with who has had a three-year-old will tell you - that stereotype is off by a year. Three is challenging. It's a time when little ones are pushing limits to see where their parents stand. They are gaining independence and learning so much. It's humbling to know as a parent, I have the ultimate chance to mold Gracie and encourage her in a positive way. When Gracie was 3 1/2, we took a trip to Disney World. This video describes PERFECTLY the roller coaster of a three-year-old. So Happy. So Upset. Watch it. To the End. (fyi - Gracie was not scared of that ride. She just decided half-way through the 40 minute line she wanted to be somewhere else. The tantrum began. Hitting, kicking ~ please tell me your children have had these moments too ~ and as you can see..it didn't end well.) I think she will look back and laugh!



We sure love our Gracie Girl. She has such a vibrant personality. She also knows how to push buttons. Recently, she was having a button-pushing day. I was SO frustrated. She was doing everything to disobey or do the opposite of what I needed and was asking of her. Finally, I told her I was going to say a prayer. She was being such a pill; I fully expected her to start clapping or yelling or doing something disruptive. But she did just the opposite. She folded her arms, bowed her head and was quiet.

"Heavenly Father, I am frustrated. Will you please help me to know how to be a good mother to Gracie. Please help me to handle this moment...because I don't know what to do."

We said Amen. I felt better.

And then a little voice asked,

"What did He say Mama? What Did Heavenly Father tell you to do?"

Big blue eyes staring at me, and my prayer was answered.

"He told me to...love you lots and lots."

Instantly she was in my arms. She hugged me. And she was a different little girl for the rest of the day. And I was different too...better even. My children make me better.

I love being a mom. However, I know I can't be a good mom without daily help from up above. I am excited to see what age 4 brings!!