Prom Shoes

I took Ana to Prom last weekend, so she could see my seniors all dressed up, and since they've been dying to meet her since she was born. We only lasted about half-an-hour; ironically, it took Ana longer to get ready. We allowed Ana a small purchase to prepare for Prom, however -- new shoes. While Jen had visions of small Mary-Janes, Ana picked out a pair sparkling red shoes, which she's become obsessed with. Frankly, it's really annoying. She won't wear anything else. At times, she's become combative and entrenched whenever we suggest she wear alternate footwear. Yesterday, when she asked to wear them to school, we relented, just to get out of the house on time. Below is a short excerpt from an email her day care teacher (whom we love) sent us that same day:

"Sadly, I am wondering if we could request that the prom shoes stay at home. Ana seems to be giving them a lot of her time and attention. This morning she took them off before breakfast, saying they were too big. It took some time getting her to put them back on and keep them on. It took quite a bit of convincing to get her to change out of the beautiful sparkly ones.

I do not want to squelch her creative, sparkly side and maybe we could try having the prom shoes at school again soon. For now it would be easier for us to have one pair of shoes for Ana. I hope you understand."

We understood. And we're grateful that Ana is going to such a thoughtful day care, and getting such thoughtful support. I would have simply thrown the shoes out the window.