You Can Lead A Toddler To The Potty Chair, But You Can't Make Them...

So for those of you eagerly awaiting a potty training update (I'm sure our audience at this point consists of Ava's two Grandmas). Here's the scoop. The first two days were rough at best. Ava did so awesome back in March, that I have to admit, it's a little discouraging. I may have to take my friend Amber's advice and use strawberries instead of candy for bribery. The momentum is gone and Ava is actually requesting to wear diapers. We have had activities the past two mornings, so I haven't made a big deal about going potty to save everyone's sanity. My advice to anyone who is approaching this fun milestone: once you start, don't stop. Our circumstances were of course extenuating, and I know we made the right choice; but it does complicate things. Remembering the big picture is important. Ava is a happy, healthy little girl and someday she will use the toilet.

On another note, one of the activities that we "put a pullup on for" was a surprise baby shower with my Bible Study ladies this morning. I thought we were just meeting for brunch, but turns out they had planned a shower. I have been so blessed by these ladies in every way this past year. I agreed to lead a Bible study group thinking that I would be leading ladies from my Real Life group. Instead I was placed with a group of women I did not know, most of whom had much more life experience and wisdom than I felt I had to offer. It was a little intimidating, but I felt a peace about staying with my group. The Lord knew I needed these ladies. I'm not sure they have learned much from me; but they have encouraged my walk with the Lord and because some are in a different season of life, they have put things like potty training into perspective. This group has also been providing us with three weeks of meals since we've been home. They have been so supportive of me and prayed for my family during this time...It was definitely worth a pullup.:) I have to add that our other friends from playgroup, church, Jason's work, MOPs, from college and growing up, have also been amazing. We are so blessed to have great friends.