I think this will be the last publication with a date...the novelty has worn off, AND when I don't publish for a week or two, it takes quite a while to figure out what day it should be.
Anyway, we are in the process of potty-training our youngest child. There is an element to it that is quite exciting: The part where you no longer have to purchase and then throw away disposable diapers (or in our case, you no longer have to store, rinse, then wash and fold cloth diapers).
I have learned a few lessons this time around (and truly, this is our fourth child, and the first where I have been a part--being the 'work-from-home-dad' you know).
THE TOP TEN LESSONS FROM POTTY TRAINING
10. It isn't worth saying, "just a minute".
9. "Uh, oh" really means Uh Oh.
8. Rinsed, but unwashed soiled clothing doesn't smell better with age.
7. No matter what undies you offer, they won't be the one he/she wants today.
6. If soiled while in public, just throw away. It's not worth packing in plastic bags to take home and launder.
5. The whole idea of 1 or 3 squares is completely lost on 2 year olds.
4. During this time, singing in the bathroom, from a 2 year old, isn't always a happy sign.
3. "The Walk" means it's too late. No sense in rushing anything at that point. As a matter of fact, the faster you move, the more the mess expands.
2. You might as well laugh, because it doesn't do any good to get angry.
1. Finger painting isn't just for paints (apparently).
Now, my wife is far more patient and loving with the messes and 'mistakes'. Her approach is so loving and kind. "You forgot? That's OK. Maybe next time." That just goes to show the difference between men and women. My initial reaction is, "You forgot?! Why do you do this?! Next time tell daddy!" Yeah, she's so much better at that nurturing stuff. But I'm learning. Today I didn't even get mad when he filled his pants...for the second time. Nope, didn't even bat an eye...Once right after breakfast while camping in the woods, and once just after arriving at a party...WITHOUT the diaper bag.
I guess it's my turn: she did potty-train the first three. She has been very patient with me in this. She reminds me that for the first three I just had to come home from work and "WHAM!" the kids were potty-trained. "You'll get the hang of it!" I'm told.
