Oh Cate!

Lately, this girl is on fire! In the past month she has started potty training, learned how to climb out of her crib, and is learning how to ride a bike (with training wheels of course).

When Cate finally realized that she wasn't going to fall into the potty and never return, she was all jazzed about using it. The first week without diapers (except for naps and bedtime), was a breeze. She went on her own, had very few accidents and was happy to go at church, at friend's homes and in public bathrooms. Then, we hit the second week and she figured out that going to the potty isn't that exciting. She is still doing well but it takes a lot to motivate this little girl to do things that are not on her terms. Potty charts, treats, and bribes of any sort don't really work for her. Chocolate has worked on occasion but isn't a sure bet. We are trying to let her navigate this milestone on her terms but still want to encourage her to move forward (even if it makes us crazy).

We know that Cate can handle a big girl bed but haven't moved her out because the crib kept her contained. She is at that stage of still needing a nap but not being tired for bedtime, so the crib kept her from climbing out. Now that she has figured out how to get out, she climbs out whenever she pleases. This evening she climbed out, pulled her bean bag into the hallway and was hanging out sucking her fingers and snuggling with her hippo. She just wanted to lay in the hall until she felt more tired. Although she can climb out on her own, she doesn't always take this route. Sometimes she yells for us to get her out, get her a drink, take her to the potty (even thought she doesn't REALLY need to go).  The other morning she yelled out, "Treeevver Burrrrgon." She is a real comedian.

A few weeks ago we got a new bike for Jane because she had outgrown her old bike. We then pulled out the training wheels for the old bike and presented Cate with "her new bike." She has loved this new freedom and is really getting the hang of pedaling.  She especially enjoys riding around the garage and has me gasping ever time she circles around the van. She is getting pretty good at hugging the corners, despite my fears that she is going to hit the car each time she turns the corner. She has taken a few spills but is pretty quick to get back in the saddle. So excited to see her learning this new skill and anxious to see what this little girl can do once the training wheels come off.

Our days with Cate are filled with a lot of laughter and frustration, highs and lows and everything in between. Although she can be challenging, I love that she is strong, that she has opinions and that she is so determined. She is so much fun and is such a cutie, you just can't help but love her. We are so proud of you Cate and of all the great things you are accomplishing!