You never forget your first kiss

I'll never forget the first time I hurt Isabel's feelings. Okay, I totally forgot it because I have a terrible memory. But I do remember the emotions.

I was tired after a long day and my little toddler was doing something toddler-esque and I responded brusquely. And she cried. She wasn't tired, or hungry, or wet - I had hurt her feelings.

For the previous 18 months, my little girl was a loveable parasite. Cute, for sure. Wonderful in every way. Still, I had never viewed her as a person. She had always been something to care for and protect. Someone to love unconditionally.

But in an instant, I realized that she needed more from me than just a caregiver. For the first time she needed emotional support. She was having a bad moment and didn't need me throwing fuel on the fire. She needed her Dad to pick her up and help her through it. And I did.

With the next two kids, I was ever vigiliant in looking for this pivotal transitional moment.

A few weeks ago, D walked by me and stopped. He backed up and looked at me. Then planted a big kiss on my lips. Then he was off again. We're pals.