tender....

Lately we have been noticing how tender hearted Reagan has become. Throughout the day she can be found giving all her stuffed animals hugs while saying "aaaawwwwweeee". I wonder where she learned that? She also hugs her books, magnets, sippy cup, blanket, movies, etc. Pretty much anything she can squeeze she does and says "aaaaaawwwwweeee". I am quickly learning that as a parent, it's VERY rewarding to have a compassionate kid. She notices when people are sad and when people are happy. She notices EVERYTHING! For example, Kurt came home from work yesterday and gave me a hug in the kitchen. We were just standing there, hugging while looking at Reagan. She got a big smile on her face and walked over to join in the hug. She wanted to be part of the moment. It was one of those moments as a parent where we needed to take a step back and pat ourselves on the back for a job well done. Without knowing it, we have been teaching her about love and compassion simply by living the life we were taught to live by our parents. Sometimes I get so caught up in mommy-hood.....our daily schedule of meals, snacks, activities, storytime, outdoor time etc, etc, etc. Sometimes I need to step back and look at the really important lessons she's learning just by watching.