We have a toddler.  I wouldn’t say it’s been the terrible two’s or even three’s.  In my opinion, it’s not the tantrums, the at the top of your lungs screaming, endless questions or even the whining, it’s the persistence with which she performs those actions.  I would like to think it’s only my child that knows the power of persistence, but I’ve observed it in other kids her age.  I guess that’s good news.  I’m not alone, right?  Anyone?  Bueller?

If Lola wants something or wants to do something, she will ask you a million times in hopes that on each try your resolve will cave and you will give in.  I can’t say that I blame her, persistence works.  Sometimes it only takes 3 times and I give in.  Sometimes, it only takes a big hug and an I love you Mommy and I give in.  That’s right, my 3 year old has got my number.  Sure I try to employ all the methods that come to mind in the heat of the moment.  Give her options, walk away, just ignore her, reverse psychology (that sounds like, “I love it when you scream, please scream louder), point and say “Is that Chester the Squirrel”.  But sometimes, when I’ve exhausted all my options and I just can’t keep it together, I get desperate or funny.  Or creative depends on how you define the following.

Lola has a persistent habit of coming out of her room after she’s been put to bed.  I need water.  I need to potty.  Barbie needs to take her shoes off.  Can you cover up Gracie the giraffe?  Mommy I can’t get the princess dress on.  This went on for a while one night.  The last straw, “Mommy tuck me in” Before we begin rock, paper, scissors to see whose turn it was, Miles, our lab mix, walks into the room.  AHA.

Me:  Lola, maybe Miles will tuck you in.

Lola: Comes out of room.  Quizzical look

Hubbie: Miles, come tuck Lola in.

Lola:  Walking with Dad and Miles. But he (Miles) doesn’t have any hands.

Awesome, now our child thinks that the dog can tuck her in.  Hmmm….maybe that’s not such a bad thing.  I wonder if Miles or Hemingway can cook dinner?