Terrible twos

Hello, welcome to the part of the show where I gripe (once again) about the kids! What? You say that's all I do? Well, buckle up because I figure on complaining about them for at least the next four years.

Of course, there's lots of endearing stuff in there too. Like on Sunday when we were enjoying some delish grilled fennel (from this week's produce share) and D was simply loving it. She looks up and says enthusiastically, "I'm in town with this!" It took us a sec before we realized she must have heard the "went to town" phrase somewhere. Note to self: watch what we say these days. Also what we spell, since she's more than able to sound out words. And? If you see her silently mouthing consonants to herself? That's EXACTLY what she's doing. So no use spelling "I-C-E-C-R-E-A-M" any more. But you can try "G-E-L-A-T-O" since she doesn't know what that is yet.

ON THE OTHER HAND...there is the wacky crank-monster we know as A. Firmly and precociously entering The Terrible Twos, his favorites words are Mama and No. Often spoken together, at the top of his lungs, in a screech that can be heard three counties over. We are now the family that other parents look at and then exchange the wordless glance that means "whew, glad it's not my kid." I know, because we used to be the family that exchanged that glance -- back when D was our only baby, the most gloriously unfussy, uncomplaining, agreeable, reasonable baby that EVER LIVED. As for A, not so much. On the other hand, he's a snuggle bunny, cheerful (when he's happy), whip-smart and fearless. But sweet Lord, you can only take so much screeching per day. I'm usually tapped out by 9:00 a.m.

So, where do I turn for solace? Prayers & chocolate.

Have a great (short) week. Three days til summer vacation!!