Test Of Wills

At dinner time today, E decided that it would be fun to sprinkle some Fruit Loops that she had in front of her on the floor. Now, this is behaviour that we've been trying to correct. So we instructed her to pick up the cereal. This led to a huge crying/screaming fit.

Each time we instructed her to pick it up, she'd adamantly shake her head, and cry even louder. The battle was on. I was determined not to back down. And so was she apparently, for she stood in one spot crying and screaming for a good ten to fifteen minutes. Not only did she not want to pick up the cereal, she was very clear that I was supposed to do it: "Mama, up!", and then pulling my hand close to the cereal on the floor. Anyway, she finally did back down, after what seemed like a really long time, and picked up the cereal, crying all the while.

Then it was soothing cuddle time with Mom - lots of hugs, kisses, praises for finally obeying, and general sayang-ing.

We won this battle. But as I watched her obey us, with tears streaming down her cheeks, and her cries ringing in my ear, my heart broke, just a little.

Making herself comfortable on a massage pad we have.