The Tale of Two Toddlers

The weight of a toddler varies, depending on several environmental factors. This variance in mass can occur in a single day, believe it or not.

Exhibit A:

4:30 p.m.

Toddler exits the daycare facility and suddenly decides he has given up the ability to walk. Mom tries to coax him in the direction of the car. Sweet talk and gentle nudging is met with a mumbled “No.” Juggling a cooler bag and a baby in a car seat, mom resorts to hauling said toddler to the vehicle amid much protest and struggle. This toddler weighs at least a ton. Mom’s arms ache and her patience wanes.

Exhibit B:

11:00 p.m.

The house is quiet -- until it’s not. Toddler wakes up bawling. Dad swoops in to save the day, armed with a syringe of Tylenol, but tears continue to fall. With damp cheeks and sore gums, toddler reaches for mom. Clinging to her like a baby koala, his sobs begin to lessen. Mom’s arms and the swaying of the rocking chair eventually soothe him until eyelids grow heavy. This toddler is as light as a feather in the wind. And somehow, mom isn’t quite so tired.

At the end of the day, these littles need love. They are navigating uncharted territory in their world. Wading through tantrums and teething isn’t easy for mama or child, but tomorrow will be a better day. Amid the chaos, I cherish every hug, giggle and goofy grin. We never cease to be amazed at everything he learns and it gives me hope for the future.

Although I am tempted to request a prayer chain to get us through this phase, I’m cautiously optimistic because we officially are at the halfway point! That is, until baby brother starts cutting teeth. But I'm not ready to think about that yet.