A Tough Job

About 5 years ago when I was filled with excitement about having children I don't think I was warned about what a tough job it is. Well we are now experiencing the many challenges that our girls' provide us with daily! Don't get me wrong; most days are filled with laughter, singing, games, playing and random cuteness. However, there are also many "bumps in the road" as Aubrey is exploring her independence. She so much wants to be in charge and in control and she has difficulty understanding that Mommy and Daddy are ultimately the ones who make the decisions. Listening is once again becoming an obstacle in life and when she does listen the word "No" is hurled back at us. Can I mention how much that makes me cringe?!

So, we are starting back at square one and experimenting with the best response to quickly nip this behavior in the bud! She definitely has to be over it before Abigail can take lessons from her. I recently discussed this issue with my mother who responded "Dear, you are looking at yourself in the mirror". What! I guess what goes around, comes around and I owe my parents a big apology! Anyway, my mother suggested that when behavior outbursts begin I should pick Aubrey up, hug her close and speak calmly. My first reaction was--I don't want to hug her during those times but I gave in and tried it. I am happy to report that IT WORKED! Within 20 seconds Aubrey was calm, I was calm (actually shocked), we could discuss the situation and the whole thing was over! I have discovered that if she knows she is not getting to me then she won't continue in her actions. I just have to say that staying calm is the hardest thing ever but if it works then I will continue trying it. There is still a lot of work to be done but I think we are heading in the right direction. I am getting ready to read "The Five Love Languages of Children" by Gary Chapman & Ross Campbell to see if I can get any tips.

Parenting is a never ending job and there are many days that it just wears me out. But, it is also the most rewarding thing I have done. I keep telling myself that if I continue to teach my girls how to be respectable, loving, caring, and independent (with limits right now) then they will turn into awesome adults that will someday pass this stuff onto their children.