Things I Know

Playing along with Shae today, here are the things I know, brought to you courtesy of my very, very adorable and very, very toddlerish toddler.

I know that the early stages of toilet readiness are much more frustrating than they are exciting, and that the middle of winter when I have no functional clothes dryer is NOT the time I would have picked to start ditching nappies.

I know that sibling rivalry is a beast that never sleeps, no matter how much your children love each other and even embrace each other's company.

I know that when the toddler says "I 'ATE YOU!" she doesn't mean it or understand what's she's saying, but I also know that it hurts like hell to hear it all the same.

I know that battling wills with a toddler is a losing game, and makes for an unhappy home. (So why can't I stop doing it then?)

And oh boy, but I know, as Arwyn writes, that toddlers are triggering.

But, at the same time ...

I know that reading with a toddler who loves to listen, engage and drink in the story is a wonderful boon.

I know that bouncing on the trampoline in the winter sun with a laughing, lively toddler is both freeing and relaxing.

I know that the kisses and cuddles of a toddler are beyond sweet, accessing a tenderness and devotion that belongs to this child and all my children.

I know that being part of a toddler's day means the chance to see things through fresh eyes, to experience newness and delight in ordinary things.

I know that I want to be here with my toddler and with my older children, even when it's hard and even when it hurts, and I know that I want this for myself, not just in martyrdom because I believe it's in their interests to have me here.

Check out Yay for Home! for other things people know today.