Happy Friday! This week has flown by for me, has it for you? I had grand plans of having a few blog posts this week, but that just didn’t happen. Sorry, guys. I hope to put more things together next week, like our trip to Napa in November. Sheesh. I’m also contemplating how I’m going to go about a BIG project I’m working on, so I’ll be asking for your help soon on that, too.
This week had lots of highlights. We went to the zoo, transitioned to a toddler bed, had a petting zoo day at school, enjoyed playdates, and relaxed at home. This is what life lately has looked like.
ONE.
The Houston Zoo
Last Friday, M had off, so we headed to the zoo to enjoy some gorgeous weather. Charlotte had a blast as per usual, but she especially loved the choo choo train as she calls it that took us around the entire park.
After the choo choo train, we went into the zoo, and she loved seeing all the animals. Her most favorite part of the zoo though was the carousel. She cried when she had to get off. Of course she did. But in true toddler fashion, she was bouncing around again in no time.
If you’ve never been to the zoo with your little, I highly recommend it. You can see my 5 Tips to Enjoy the Zoo here.
TWO.
Toddler Bed Transition
Toddler Bed Transition
Last week, I talked about how we were about to take the plunge and transition to the toddler bed, and last Friday night, we did it. M changed her crib into a toddler bed that day, and I cried. Really, I shed tears. But my sweet girl did such a good job! The first night was a little tricky. Falling asleep was a breeze. We had our nighttime routine as usual, and she hopped into bed like a big girl. She loves being able to crawl in herself. But that night, she woke up and wandered out of her room crying hysterically. M wanted to bring her to our bed, but I did not want to start bad habits. I calmly walked her back to her room and had a long talk with her. I told her that I didn’t want her to get scared anymore when she wakes up and that she needs to stay in her bed until mommy or daddy comes to get her. She bought it. She hasn’t gotten up out of her bed since. We’ve made it one full week of being in the toddler bed, and I’m not crying anymore and neither is she.
One thing I think is key in making a smooth transition is to keep bedtime as normal as usual. We still brush our teeth, change into jammies, read our books, say our prayers, and say goodnight. She was waking up a little earlier than usual the first few days, but she’s doing better now.
And here is the book I shared on Instagram a couple of weeks ago that’s a favorite part of our nighttime routine.
This book guarantees laughs and sweet giggles. It’s Charlotte’s favorite right now, and I have to say, it’s mine too.
THREE.
The Petting Zoo
Tuesday, Charlotte’s Mother’s Day Out school hosted a Petting Zoo Day, and this little girl was in heaven. She absolutely loves animals and being outside, so she ate it up. I’m so thankful I was able to be there with her to see her excitement. It was really bright and beautiful weather (we’ve been spoiled with good weather lately), but Charlotte wasn’t a fan of the blinding sun as seen below.
But she was a fan of the donkeys and goats.
She wanted to ride the choo choo train five times, so we did. And she wanted to ride the pony five times, so we did.
Best day ever! When she asked if the petting zoo would be at school on Thursday and heard a no, she didn’t want to go to school that day. Imagine that.
FOUR.
Reading
If you’re not new around here, I bet you’re like, “Kristy, you’re still not finished with For the Love? You’ve been reading that thing since the summer!” And to that, I would say, you are so right. I just like to think of it as savoring every word. It is the best!!! I’m almost done with it now, and then I’ll start The Finishing School: How One Book Nerd Began Living What She Learned. This book sounds like it’s right up my alley, too, so much so that I joined the Facebook book club. Of course I’m behind though. Of course. I can’t wait to catch up! What are you reading right now? I think after these, I’ll throw in a fiction/chick-lit book. Mix it up a little.
FIVE.
Links I’ve Loved.
Here are some great reads I enjoyed this week:
- Sleeping with my Marriage Counselor — That title is definitely click bait, but the author is my friend Hannah, and she’s actually married to a marriage counselor. She shared some great marriage advice, and I think it’s worth a read.
- 10 Things All Moms Should Do Every Day — Such a great piece about how we should take care of ourselves.
- This article about the Making a Murderer trial and more conspiracy theories. This had me scratching my head yet again. If you have not watched MaM yet, what are you waiting for?
And that’s about it. What’s life been like for you lately? Praying for all my friends right now who need a special prayer. Have a happy weekend, friend! See you soon.
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