I'm trying to affirm my daughter less. Less 'way to go!'. Less 'you are so beautiful'. Less 'that's amazing!' Because this summer I realized I had gone too far.

It's a parent script that downloads into our brains upon child bearing - ready to play at any moment's notice when you want your kids to behave. They seem like harmless words. But they're not. I was creating a monster.

But I would not teach her a long-lasting life lesson if I forced her to donate the quarters or if I didn't give her a choice at all. Generosity and selflessness can't be taught by guilt trips and punishments.

It's been 7 days. Here's the update... (I promise no gross details!) Birth Story - the short version!

Sometimes at night I come in your room
Sit by your bed, and stare at you
You blink those heavy eyes.
You’re sleepy shy