A Lesson in Civility

I think one of the hardest things about being the mom of a toddler is: not laughing at them. When Milo is frustrated or mad he tantrums. The other day Milo wanted to walk down the stairs by himself. Obviously, though smart, he has not conquered the "big staircase." So, when I said "no" and took his hand—Milo got very mad at me. (Though I think Ron would say I have no one to blame for my independent, headstrong son but myself.) He walked over to the bookcase and took a picture of me and Ron that we look at every night ("dadda") and threw it on the floor! When I didn't react, mostly because I was stunned at his passion, he picked it up and threw it down again! My first reaction was laughter—but I also had to let Milo know it wasn't acceptable to throw anything—let alone a picture of the woman who had swollen ankles for nine months because of him! But what to do! Tonight when I went to pick him up from Marin's house—he shoved her with both hands and she fell on her bottom. Marin, as usual, was a lady and didn't utter a peep. So, when Eric told Milo, "Give Marin a kiss." He moved in and I thought he was going to plant a wet one on her. He walked up—and shoved her again. My first reaction was laughter. Why? Mostly because I was surprised. But also because I love that toddlers do exactly what they want. No matter what we think—we're not the ones in charge! I did lecture my boy that pushing is not allowed and his tears told me he understood. Today. (Here's a picture of my gentleman giving Marin a real kiss.)