I think Jack has entered a new phase...he's been overly cranky and whiny and will not give me a moment's rest. I have been trying to get to the source of the problem but it seems I am only supplying band-aides!For example instead of his usual cheery self this week he's crying before he's even out of bed and whining that he wants a banana...over and over. When I tell him cheerfully, "Yes, let's go eat a banana for breakfast" he cries harder...even though I've just said yes! So by the time we get to the kitchen and I get him in his chair he's now shouting "BACON" "NANA" "BACON" "NANA" and all through tears. (A side note -- Jack's a HUGE fan of Veggie Bacon which luckily only takes a minute in the microwave). He settles enough to eat and then goes on the rampage again usually as soon as I sit with my cereal...it's as though he lacks all politeness and takes offense to the fact that I can't produce things instantly! Almost as though as soon as he says something or thinks of something I should already have it available. Please, someone tell me this is a phase!
He's also started hitting and pinching -- neither of which we've ever taught him! He loves to play with my hair but lately he'll pull hard on purpose. I believe this is all related to the reaction. He sees my sad face and starts to make a sad face too. I always firmly tell him "NO" and most times he'll test me again. I do not want him to do this to others! Right now it's only me...
I sliced his banana through my own tears this morning -- I had a moment of panic -- how on earth will I cope with TWO? I may never eat or rest again!! I understand that of course I will be fine -- we all will, but because we've had several of these rough days in a row it stressed me out a bit this morning.
I have to learn to be okay with needing and wanting a break...it's no one's fault but our own we haven't had a babysitter in forever....and before that it was another forever ago. I think this weekend we'll arrange to have a date. Maybe dinner? Maybe a movie? Perhaps both? I'll let you know how that works out.
Sounds like a phase to me! I feel for you but I'm sure it will pass. My second little man was that way for a Looooong time. He wanted to do things himself or eat something specific and then when it came right down to it... he'd change his mind in a very unpleasant manner.
ReplyDeleteYes, you need to get out with your spouse. Get a babysitter and leave Jack. It's taken me a long time but I've finally learned how "mandatory" the date night is. Hang in there!
I'm sure it's a phase. My Jak is going on and off (more on) with some terrible twos. It's hard sometimes and you and I are in the same boat... another one on the way! :)
ReplyDeleteI need to be better at identifying some mom time. Even if it means I leave when DH comes home and get a pedicure or go shopping.
I do think date night is important as well... but remember MOMMY TIME too!
Ohhh that is hard. I think he is establishing his independance - classic dictator/toddler style. A hard but good problem to have as he is passing through another developmental stage.
ReplyDeleteBut I wish I could give you some much needed mommy down time. I know it can be expensive to hire a sitter. But maybe there is a grandma or grandpa who can help? It will be hard with two and joyous too. But any mom can use a regular break - emphasis on regular. I am learning this the hard way as my body is breaking down bit by bit. It's a sign to build in some time to rest.
I hope you can build in some regular down time for for yourself. It is clear to me that if us mom's don't do this for ourselves, no one else does. You deserve it as you have the hardest job of all.
Hugs,
Kathryn
Our latest stage is Moo telling me that he doesn't want to do that. "that" is basically everything even though he has a good time once we do "that". And when he cries, it's like fingernails on a blackboard. Very painful.
ReplyDeleteYou will cope great with two but it will take Jack some time to get used to the idea. What have you told him about the baby?
I hope you enjoy time out with your other half this weekend. I'm desparate for some time out but it's hard to find someone willing to look after three.
L,
Jacqui