Self

She's gaining this sense of self. Our little Miss is not just mimicking her brothers, instead she's establishing her own style, coming to her own conclusions and developing her own opinions. (Opinions which in some cases are quite strong.)

On this particular day, Ellie was of the opinion that underwear and a bandanna are perfectly acceptable attire. No matter how much cajoling and reasoning, she held firm. She was NOT cold... She did NOT need to put on a shirt. She was just FINE. It was only when everyone else was going to go outside to play that she finally decided more than just a stitch of clothing would be necessary.

I love this stage, each of the little people have gone (and are going) through this evolution into the people that they are growing to become. For Gavin it's not quite as easy... being in school means that he needs to conform to how other people think he should be, and their ideas of normal... and weird. I know he listens when I say it's okay for him to be HIM. I know he knows who he is... but being who we truly are isn't always easy, especially when under the scrutiny of others.

Home is a safe space for that kind of evolution, and the little people take advantage of that, especially Miss Ellie... As for the rest of us, well, we have a front row seat for the show. I think it's gonna be a good one. I'll let you know how it turns out.