Emotions, Drama, and a Strong Will

[MsSassyBaskets]

Strong work, mama. I feel it's easier to cope with those meltdowns when you can recognize that your kiddo is letting loose with the person she trusts most. Just by weathering the storm, not fixing it or shutting it down, you show your kiddo you're a rock to rely on. It's not easy, but hang in there!

http://www.mothering.com/articles/cry-for-connection/

Yeah, I mean, I do not succeed at this every time. I'm hoping it's more than half the time, but it really depends on how well we're coping as a whole family with whatever phase we're in. There's been so much bossy, demanding, defiant behavior lately that I have definitely lost it a fair amount lately, especially when I was in the throes of exhausted morning sickness. But this weekend I just kept telling myself "this is normal and expected" while the other side of my brain was screaming "she's a demon child who is hell bent on ruining this entire trip!" Also the hysteria was strong enough that DH and I could laugh about it in private. I see the good results when we hold it together though, so that makes it easier. Big sigh of relief at dropping her off at school today and coming back to work with a big mug of coffee and a quiet house.