I just told my children, in a stern, pre-coffee, exhausted tone that I am in no way, shape, or form in the mood to deal with tantrums today. I can only hope they understand this.
I am in the mood to play with calm, happy, children. I am in the mood to fold laundry – if only to get it off my couch. I am in the mood to mop the floors, dust the furniture, spit shine the leather.
I am in the mood to clean out closets, cook elaborate, time consuming meals that no one will eat, and rearrange kids room for the 80th time this month.
I am in the mood to be at their beckoned call, wipe runny noses, retrieve the blue cup for their water, and cut their grilled cheese sandwiches into gingerbread men.
But I am not, under any circumstances, at any time, no matter what, in no way, shape, or form in the mood for tantrums today!
Got that kiddos? Loves of my life? Wonderful offspring?
Good.
Now – if only they could read!
Yeah, let us know how that goes. LOL
If only it were that easy!
So far a complete FAIL!!!! But I still have unrealistic hopes! LOL
Oh man, I hear you.
My patience is low today after sleep deprived night with The Demanding Little Diva:
http://danceswithchaos.wordpress.com/2010/12/09/crying-cuddly-cling-wrap-what-happens-when-14-month-old-demands-you-as-her-crib/
When I get so little sleep, I just cannot deal with tantrums. I think the last time I banished 3.5 year old to his room b/c my head was about to explode and better he play in his room (which he truly loves) than have me snap.
If they behave well enough – and I fear a possible change in that – I will resort to Movie Bribery to keep things going smoothly.
Sadly, I cannot do such a thing once a meltdown has occurred or risk reinforcing behavior.
Darn smart children…
Girl I am with you. And they are testing every edge of my patience, good nature, and sanity. I am alllllll done with today! ((HUGS)) Tired is awful!
OK I would like to know if it works for you could you come here and teach me how to do it woth my son?
HA!! If only it HAD!
So how did it go??? :) Your list of "wants" was pretty generous, did they let you get away with making their lives magical, tantrum free? :)
No! LOL Dismal fail. They were onto me! ;D
LOL. If only it were that easy, eh? I think coffee and earplugs give somewhat better results. :)
Angela- I concur 100%
Here, here! I completely agree.