Dad

So, Leo called me 'Dad' for the first time today. Not 'Dada' or 'Daddy'. Just 'Dad'. Not sure he even thought about it. I was helping him put some roads together for his cars to drive on and he said, "No, Dad, that's not how I want it - please do it like this." Dad. It sounded great!

Arrrrrrgh!

Daniel is testing me! He's approaching his 3rd birthday and has decided to NOT do anything I ask him to do. His favorite word the past 2 days has been "No"! So he didn't eat any dinner tonight (pizza, one of his favorites), and sat there and watched as Leo finished all of his, as well as dessert. He wouldn't take a time out. He wouldn't go upstairs (I had to carry him), he wouldn't take a bath (I undressed him and put him in the water), then had to put him to bed multiple times. When I try to ignore him, he finds me and asks to be carried. When I say no, he throws himself on the floor. When I give him a hug, he tells me he loves me, then goes and throws some toys on the floor. As if he needs more attention . . .

I remember when Leo did the same thing. Frustrating for sure, but I know he'll outgrow it soon, as Leo did. Just have to get through it without any permanent damage!