Whoever coined the phrase “terrible twos” must have done so before they were the parent of a three-year old.
Because if the twos are “terrible,” then the “threes” are a nightmare in living color.
At least that was the case in our home, with all three of our children. I hear so many other parents share the same discovery upon the arrival of their first child’s third birthday.
Yes, I think the “terrible twos” are an urban legend.
Because when they’re two, it’s all, “Yes mommy,”
And, “I love you mommy,”
And, “What can I do to please you today mommy?”
And then they turn three, and it’s “No.”
And “You can’t make me.”
And “I don’t love you anymore.”
And “You’re the worst mommy ever!”
And it’s temper tantrums in the aisles of the grocery store.
And non-sensical arguing, 24/7.
And battle time at the dinner table.
And potty training.
(Don’t even get me started on that one.)
I don’t know what happens on the 1,094th day of their sweet little lives, but whatever it is, it’s not good.
It’s as if there’s a switch on their backs. And on the eve of their third birthday, someone dressed for the cover of darkness, and wearing a mask, sneaks into our home while all the chicks are tucked safely into bed, and flips the switch from “angel” to … well, the opposite of that.
And the next day, our whole life changes.
For at least 12 months. . . .
To continue reading about our journey through the terrible threes, hop on over to Four To Adore where I’m privileged to be guest posting today. I’d love to visit you there!
The post There’s No Such Thing As The “Terrible Twos” appeared first on Confessions of a Pastor's Family.