Moods

Ethan has been so inconsistent lately. Napping, not napping. Using the potty, wanting only diapers. Little angel, constant tantrums. Some of it is clearly just wanting independence and a say in what goes on in his life. Some of it is learning new things (and the accompanying backsliding of others). Some of it is being tired from the not napping.

I think, strangely enough, part of it is that we have been talking a lot about our moods and how we are feeling. He's learning how to express things more clearly and put words to how he's feeling. It's so fun to have Ethan wake up and tell us "I'm feeling silly today", and then to spend the whole day making us laugh. It's less fun when he tells us he's frustrated or mad, but like we tell him, it's a part of who we are to have all kinds of moods. It's a learning experience for all of us watch how his moods change, how they are affected by our moods, and how his moods affect ours. As much as we've been really struggling with how to raise this inconsistent boy (and not be frustrated a lot ourselves), we love watching him learn about himself and how to express his feelings so that others understand. He really is a great kid. Even on the days I grit my teeth when I say it.