One of those days

It has been a day of ups and downs for me. I am battling some sass here from both boys. And when both boys are up by 6 am ready to go- it makes for a long day. By 7:30 Henry had hit Charley twice. I am attempting the time out with Henry (which requires me picking him up, holding him on my lap, while he thrusts, I meanwhile count down from ten and he slowly mellows, and then goes to apologize to his brother). Charley is throwing fits lately - when he doesn't get what he wants. As a mom it is so hard not to take the easy way out and give in. But I am holding my ground - most of the time- but it is both mentally and physically exhausting. I am jealous of Ed lately, coming home energized to see his two little men who are just waiting to know that he will read with them. I get down on myself when I feel so done when he walks in the door lately.

However, moments later we are entering the car shop to get our car worked on for 2 hours and the boys are wonderful. They eat grapes, blueberries, drink their water, color, play with the crappy toys they provide, and do sticker books together. I sit and sigh and realize how blessed I am.

On the way home they argue over some dumb plastic toy thingy in the car and I once again find my skin crawling and feeling like this day is so overwhelming.

Yet, when I go to put Henry down for his nap...Charley FINALLY cleans up the toy area without me being RIGHT. THERE. And Henry, naps for 3 hours and needs to be woken.

By the way, what makes a 5 year old ask you "Mama, will my head always be this size?" Because Charley asked me this in a serious voice while he changed after swimming today.

I know my hormones are all over the place and I am so thankful that my mom is available on Thursdays (and everyday) to remind me that all that I am feeling and dealing with is normal and valid. She reminds me to breathe and give myself a break.