Jane Be Jane

I've talked a bit about my oldest, Ashley, so I thought I would spotlight my other kids as well. My second daughter, Jane, has been doing her own thing from the beginning. For starters, she tried to come out feet first. She never really crawled, but instead scooched on her bum across the floor before walking. She started doing so many things her own way, we started calling it the "Jane-way."

What's my favorite thing about Jane? She's not afraid to forge her own path. Can it be a little frustrating at times? Sure. But I'm so proud of her for being like this. My greatest hope for Jane is that she will be able to carry this trait throughout her life. That she will never be afraid to do things her way and to stick to her goals and dreams even when times are tough. There's a song by one of my favorite artists, Ben Folds called "Jane be Jane." We didn't name her after the song, but it does ring true to who she is.

Jane, be Jane
You're better that way
Not when you try immitating something

You think you saw.

So Jane, be Jane

And if sometimes that might

Drive them away

Let 'em stay there

You don't need them anyway.

You're worried there might not be

Anything at all inside
The fact you're worried
It should tell you that's not right
Don't try to see yourself the way that others do

It's no use.

But it's your life

And you can decorate it

As you like

Beneath the painted armor

In your eyes, the truth still shines

Jane, be Jane

I love you Jane. Love, Dad.