Let's Go Jeeping!

Our dear friends gave this jeep to Zoë when we moved to Indiana two years ago. I was so excited because I always wanted a jeep like this when I was little. I even remember telling my dad when he asked me what color to paint his truck, that I wanted it Pink. Alas, the truck was painted dark blue, but I finally got my pink vehicle. I often think the toys are more about what the parent wants, and not necessarily what a kid wants. I know I've told my daughter, "NO!" to a few toys they've expressed an interest in just because I don't want to spend the money on it, it is something I find annoying/irritating, or I just don't want to deal with all the little pieces. Other toys I buy are more because I think they're cool/fun and then the girls barely (if ever?) play with them. This is one I am grateful I didn't have to buy, but I believe to my hubby's chagrin, I've paid a bit out in buying batteries...

Zoë's favorite color being purple (mine as well) and my just having a handy can of purple spray paint, we decorated it up this past week (at the cost of Megan's new skirt, and my hands looking a little like a statue's for a day). It looks rather sporty now, and I'm glad that the garish pink is a little more dull.

Zoë has been awesome about sharing the jeep. We took it to playgroup and she drove every kid who wanted a ride, and even let some of the older kids drive. She drives it like a pro! I didn't think much about it until I tried Megan behind the wheel (Look out!) and I saw some of the other kids Zoë's age who tried to drive. At the playgroup we were at a park and Zoë drove the jeep on the grass behind the playground. When we got it home, I told her (ok, yelled at her) that she should never drive it in the street. So, I nearly fell down laughing when I saw that she wasn't sedately driving it on the sidewalks around our block, but tearing across the grass and around bushes, and having fun bouncing around. Is Jeeping genetic?

I am so grateful that I have a daughter who is willing to lead, but share. I don't know that she follows all that often, but she is good at taking directions. I'm grateful for all the memories I have of jeeping and camping, of childhood toys and trips. I hope that I can give my own children some wonderful memories, opportunities to learn, and chances to make friends and share. I love watching my girls learn, and grow- especially when I see that they are making good choices, and being good leaders and fun friends.



Thank you Lewis Family!