And now real life begins...

Real life with a two and a half year old-hmmm, what words would describe that? Cracker crumbs and milk dribbles? Maybe stinky pants and sticky fingers? Or giggles and sheer amazement over simple things? Two year olds are their own animal regardless of how they come to your family. Kenson spent yesterday "adjusting". Lots of screaming and crying and tantruming. A lot of "I want Mama" behavior whiplashing into "Put me down!" A lot of "I really don't know what is wrong but everything is wrong."

So we decided to clear out the middle of the living room so that it was free from the coffee table and similar things so Kenson could have a tantrum spot that would be safe. I'm pretty sure he recognizes we will meet his needs. Previous trips with him plus his interaction with us in the last few days seem to indicate that. And you can only spend so long trying to soothe a mad toddler. After 1 1/2 hour screaming match this afternoon we decided we would just let him sit on the floor and scream.

The afternoon's main ordeal was over him wanting us to carry him around. He wanted to be held but only if we stood up. Not so fun with a 30+ kiddo. In reality, I suppose it's about control. "My life is out of control but I can control if Mama stands or sits." So on the floor he went, followed by the directions "Sheeta Mama" and "Sheeta Papa." (Sit Mama, sit Papa) We went about our business, ignoring the tantrum except for occasionally telling Kenson to sit with us. And he stopped after about 5 minutes of the new tactic. (Which had been preceded by the hour plus tantrum.) Hopefully, that will continue to work, especially as we deal with grief and anxiety emotions.