Ready to Walk?

So, I really think Caroline is alot closer to walking than I originally thought. Two weeks ago, she could have cared less to pull up on anything much less try to toddle around. Now, when you take her little hands and walk with her, she squeals with delight! I want her to walk, but I know the next phase is hard. Getting into things, not to mention trying to keep her away from John's "duff". He is very patient with her and often lets her hold his toys, but I just wonder how long that will last.

On another note, John went to the grocery store with me today. I have not attempted this in a LONG time because it usually ends in disaster. But, with his new (and very strict) bedtime routine, his behavior has improved so much. Not that he was horrible, but he is a typical 3 year old! We talked about "good" behavior on the way to the store and that if he was a good boy, he could get a small special prize.

Side note - we have to be specific and say SMALL special prize b/c of the time Chase took him to the store, with a promise of a special prize for good behavior, and John ended up coming out of the store with a stuffed Duck animal that was bigger than him. Hence the term "Small Special Prize"

John did really well. He stayed in the "buggy" as he calls it in true southern form. It helps that Kroger has race cars attached to the buggy and we got that one. I take out small children and end caps of merchandise each time I try to turn this huge thing, but he sits in it and that's what matters.

So, an hour later we emerge with groceries for the week (although I am sure I forgot something)and some Nemo treats. The coveted Special Prize. He was very kind and asked if I would like one. They truly are disgusting, but he loves them.

Caroline will turn 1 this week. My how time flies. I truly feel I have gotten to experience being the best mom I can be with her. I missed out on so much with John during that first year. I guess, in some sort of way, I knew I had to get it right with Caroline. I don't want to throw out my shoulder patting myself on the back, but I think I did a pretty darn good job this first year. And, I learned how to keep my favorite little guy feeling special even though this new little creature came to our house to stay.

I asked John the other day if he remembered when it was just mommy, daddy and John...just the 3 of us. He looked at me, thought about it for a second, then said "No". What a sweet boy.