This post is a complimentary piece to “8 Things I’ve Learned from My 2 Year Old” which is being featured over at Steady Mom today. Go check it out.
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It’s taken me a little while to get here.
When Koala was about 22 months old my world was turned upside down. My ultra-sweet, easy to please, take anywhere baby turned on me.
He found his voice and a strong sense of self. His climbing legs grew stronger and he started looking me right in the eye, with the mischievous grin of an imp, as he stepped off the curb into the road. All of the sudden my days became limited because his safety required me to follow him around and assist his evil knievel stunts.
We were shunned out of restaurants because of his boisterous calls and affinity for throwing anything he could get his hands on. We declined invitations to Thanksgiving dinner because there was no way we could take him to someone else’s home! (They had no children and impeccably refined taste–think white upholstered dinner chairs and fine china.)
Then, somewhere in the last month or so we found ourselves adjusted. His new way of being has become a regular part of life and I’m hip to his two year old needs. For example, now, if I need to run into the co-op for a few things, I go in with him hungry, grab him a muffin or other treat and strap him into the carriage immediately to avoid disaster and embarrassment. I then make a mad dash hoping to be done before he’s done eating. (Nine out of ten times this actually works.)
We’ve caught up with his growth spurt and as the confusion lifts the most adorable, precocious and lovable child has emerged. Oh, how he makes us laugh! He’s a mini-man who, when senses we are leaving, puts on his big brother’s snow boots, one mitten and tries to open the door, waving “bye! bye!” This all with a bare bottom.
We bundled up in a snowfall the other day and he had the opportunity to use his brand new snow shovel. He was wearing his favorite “mitts” and and a full body snow suit. I nearly melted watching him. Stone and I just watched and watched, giggling at the marvel of our own creation, as he shoveled and grunted and played in the snow. I was supposed to be on my way to get some work done, but I couldn’t leave. The moment was too precious.
How delicious! How wonderful! How perfect! He’s that amazing balance of baby meet big boy. His personality is emerging and it’s delightful. He entertains us and tells jokes, all in his unique language. It’s a relief to find a moment of respite amongst the sometimes tumultuous journey of family living and parenthood.
We love him. He’s two and he’s terribly terrific!
Reminder to future self. Phases come and go and change is inevitable. Just when it seems like parenting is unbearable or overwhelming I receive the strength, inspiration and new tools to parent this new phase of childhood.
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I also tried to reframe how I see this phase as the Terrific Twos. Though incredibly challenging at times, he does make me laugh! It’s a real gift to be able to see them grow into themselves.
Alisha´s last blog ..Stretching
I enjoy reading your blog and your posts over at Steady Mom. My son is almost in his twos … oh my! So far it’s so much fun to see him asserting his individuality, (maybe because he’s really intent on helping us with chores right now?) But I sense there are challenges lurking on the horizon. I am now so much more understanding of why my parents always said, “It’s just a phase. You’ll grow out of it.”
Abby, so glad to have you :)
A big yes to keeping phases in mind! When things are really good I try to remember that it will soon change so enjoy it now and when things are rough around the edges knowing it will change can save my sanity!
This post totally makes me smile. Two wasn’t such a difficult age for Zeb; three was much harder – oh! not to worry you!
I think if I could’ve taken a deep breath and a longer view – like it seems you’re able to do – it would have been much more simple.
If all else fails in those challenging moments, just repeat after me: This TWO shall pass!
Tara´s last blog ..Transitioning (Phase One)
Ha! I like that one!
Two was not a difficult stage for Sol either–it was three. When I just had Sol it was much easier to work him through his independent needs. Not only does K try to keep up with his older brother, but I usually am avoiding one crisis with a five year old when I hear the two year starting another crisis somewhere else in the house! poor me! lol.
Thank you for this optimistic view. My second child is coming up on 18 months, and I can see the toddler in him starting to grow. I needed a reminder of the good parts of this age!
Amber´s last blog ..Imperfection
Beautiful post! I jumped over from your guest post at Steady Mom–well done.
I also have to let you know–I have a 2 year old son dubbed Koala too.
I can totally relate to everything you wrote.
I can so relate to this as well, Hillary ~ as I read the whole thing with a big smile on my face!
Roan is QUITE the comedian, always doing things to make us laugh. I can’t count how many times in a day, Graeme and I look at each other and giggle over our 2 year old’s antics!
I really do love this age! :)
Kate´s last blog ..My Everyday Magic 1/25/2010
great post hil. here and at steady mom.
you have such a beautiful, positive outlook…it’s just oozes through the computer as i read.
xo
~e
exhale. return to center.´s last blog ..saturdays at sophie’s
My two year old is such a delight too. When she has a meltdown I know she’s just frustrated with the fact that she’s just too little for her big self inside. I love to watch her play though. My oh my does she ever want to be a big kid. And in so many ways she is.
Melodie´s last blog ..How Often Do You Bathe Your Baby?
Love this hillary. And love the presence and beauty you bring to mothering. All good stuff.