the confidence my toddler gives me

My daughter had her fist official birthday party invite... she has been to many birthdays, but this was the very first invite that she received from her very own friend at childcare. I didn't know this girl nor her mother so we shared this very first experience together last Sunday.

I am one who normally hates attending social events where I don't know anyone, but this was very different. As I drove my little princess all frocked up in her gorgeous pink tutu and sparkly shoes to match I felt a weird confidence I never had before. I was proud of my little angel for making her very own friend and not to mention one who is 6 months older which is a big gap for a 2.5yo. I did for a moment think to myself that I am not going to know a single person at this party, nor do I even know what the birthday girl or her mother look like. That feeling passed quickly and was overtaken by excitement. I had to be confident for my girl and I had to show her how to enjoy herself at an event such as this.

Lil-L is pretty outgoing but it always takes her 20 minutes or so to feel confident in a new environment. She takes her time, observes and then joins in. By the time the face painting started, she was in full swing, climbing up and down the playground and sliding down the big tube slides. She lined up to get her face painted and although this was also a new experience, it didn't faze her one bit. She joined in and enjoyed every part of the party. I was so proud of my little angel and felt an enormous warmth just observing her confidence in such a new environment.

I know I have my own personality traits and I lack confidence here and there, but its amazing what you will do for your kids. They give me such great confidence and such enjoyment in watching them take part in different things. I just hope their enthusiasm and drive continues throughout their lives.