This kid is turning two TOMORROW and, boy, is he letting us know it.

Everything we say gets a “no” in response. An occasional “no thank you, mama” or “no thank you, papa,” which softens the blow, I suppose.

But EVERYTHING EVERYTHING EVERYTHING is a “no.”

Do you want this banana?

No.

But then he’ll proceed to eat it anyway.

Can I lift up your sleeve? So you don’t get it wet while you are washing your hands?

No.

NO.

And then he’ll run in place and scream at me as I’m lifting up his sleeve.

This is all part of the deal, I know.

I know this is not unusual. It’s to be expected. And it’s actually a reminder that this little guy is developing and growing. He is finding his voice and power.

And, yet, I’m tired.

I was talking to my best friend and we were both laughing about the things that set our respective kiddos off. She shared that she has learned – over time – to let go of some of the smaller things. Like, for example, if he wants to eat his snack on the stairs, why the heck not? He’s eating, it’s not messy, it’s quiet.

And I shared about how I’ve learned small little Ishu hacks over time. Like, for example, if I tell him I’m going to lift up his sleeve AS I’m lifting up his sleeve, meltdown. But if I tell him I’m going to lift up his sleeve 4 seconds before I do it, he’s fine. I mean, not always. But he likes the heads up.

Which, when you look at that example, it makes a lot of sense. They want a heads up. They don’t want to be caught off guard. If we can give them a little forewarning before doing the thing (e.g. putting a shirt on, pulling their sleeve up, picking them up), it may not prevent the big, big emotions. But it may help? And it can’t hurt?

So, yes. This guy is two tomorrow. And I am in for a wild, crazy year. I have no idea what I’m doing, but I know we’ll figure it out together. As we’ve done – up to this point – for the past two years!

Question of the Day:

What is the most unusual thing that upset your toddler?