Tantrum Tough

Soren's tantrums are getting tough.  Tougher to understand, tougher to control and tougher to handle.   

I have done SO much research and read SO many articles but am still left without options.  The most success I have had was during a one on one play between the two of us and I mimicked his behavior.   

He responded with all the right corrections - even ones I didn't think he heard or responded to.  Super impressive.  But I worry.  Like most parents.  I'll level - he's a thrower... of toys.  He's accidentally gotten myself and Rick and once - another kid (I felt SO awful.  He apologized... but still, so terrible!).  I worry - always when we are in public.  And I know that doesn't help. 

We aren't corporal punishers and trust me - we have tried just about everything.  Time outs, counting, breathing, songs, distraction, display, etc....  He's a tough kid - and strong.  Even stronger willed.  

I guess, in some ways - I should admire his strong will.  There is this funny Louis CK bit that resonated a bit too well.  If you can stand the profanity, it's worth the listen.  Like 'be near a toilet, 'cause I almost peed my pants' kind of funny!

 so much 'tude!

Cousins

They just know.  It's interesting to observe, really.  Soren and Avery don't see each other often, maybe 2-3 times a year.  Of course we prepare them for one another 'Soren - are you ready to see your cousin Avery??' 'Avery, are you ready to play with cousin Soren??'.  Just like you would for playdates and outings.  But for some reason - when these two get to see each other, it's as if they know - that they are cousins.  

Their interactions with other kids are always different.  I'm told Avery plays a shy - keeps to herself, parallel play, and Soren is a bit quiet but quickly turns into the clown.  I'm not implying Soren didn't act the clown or they didn't parallel play, but they did instantly interact.  

Avery was super excited and started pulling Soren around to see all her toys and showing him how EVERYTHING works (she's almost exactly a year older, took on the big kid role!).  And Soren was quick to follow asking questions and examining her every move.

It was different.  Maybe that is a better way to put it.  In the best way.  Like you could see the warmth and love between them even though the depth of that word they have yet to really comprehend.  It was something special.  I miss her already and her little sister.  And so does Soren.  

Every morning we were there, Soren would wake up asking 'Where's Avery?'.  I would tell him she was still sleeping in her room.  He would go in, climb up on her bed and wish her a good morning.  Avery would then instruct me to make them oatmeal and orange juice as they began a day of play.  Our sweet little blondies.   He asked me yesterday morning, our first day back in Cincinnati 'Where's Avery??'.  My heart melted.

 

Cincinnati Summer : Second Sunday on Main

Another Sunday well spent!  We headed down for the Hudepohl races.  Pappa enjoyed a beer while Soren and I chilled out with some Streetpops.  We snagged some delicious Grilled Cheese (C'est Cheese Food Truck) and checked out vendors and new entrepenours (check out this great Frameshop , these sweet threads and home goods at The Spotted Magpie, and of course one of my old time favorites - Park+Vine).  

Days like these remind me to hold onto those moments.  You know, when they grab your hand with those tiny fingers and lead you to hula hooping or tasty popsicles.  When they feel a little insecure or the need to check in to be sure you are there.  I know it doesn't last forever - but you never forget it and it makes my heart melt every time.