It’s been a minute since I’ve posted. Okay, way longer than that—two-plus months, to be exact. While I’m grateful to be busy with other writing projects, I’m blaming another reason.
Toddler Time.
No, I’m not talking about storytime or gymnastics for little tykes. Rather, it’s the pace (and way) that toddlers move. How they live.
Toddler Time is the opposite of Island Time. It’s where the drinks always spill, the tiny umbrellas break, and the snacks run out.
Even with three daughters, I’m still miffed by the Groundhog Day experience. No matter how much time we have, we’re always running late.
Why is it always a fight to go potty? Why do they want to brush their teeth in their bedroom today? Why must we repeatedly explain why sandals don’t work in winter? Don’t even get me started on the car seat. Too late. Here’s how it goes with my two-year-old, Nora (nicknamed Nory).
“Close the door, Mommy!”
“Let me help with your straps,” I reply.
“I do it all by my Nory!!”
Several minutes later…
“I can’t get it!”
Finally, she lets me help with her seat belt—but only after I’ve unlocked the car multiple times. Then we’re off to preschool and immediately stuck behind a school bus with their numerous stops.
I surrender. We will usually be a little late.
Then there’s the bad timing part of Toddler Time. Like needing to go potty at the least opportune time. Say right before her sister is about to perform in a talent show. Did I spend $40 on tickets to miss my daughter’s dance??
And yet…
Toddler Time has its perks. One of them is the hilarious things they say when you least expect it. I’ve covered Funny Todderlisms not once, not twice, but three times.
Four of my all-time favs:
“I’m not a baby anymore. I’m a tobbler!” —Riley
“Peel your eyes open!” —Charlotte
“Sir Mommy” and in the next breath “Burger Lady!” —Nora
“Too loud, turn it up.” —Riley
With Toddler Time also comes the impromptu hugs at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I’ll gladly put my fork down for an unsolicited hug.
One of the best parts of toddlers—that I’ve cherished with all three girls—is post-nap time. They’re locked in on a show and still. It’s a rare break from the 100-MPH chaos, a window of snuggles that forces me to pause.
At the end of the day, I’m still beyond thankful for my toddler turkeys. Possibly even more so lately as the toddler window for our family begins to close.
My blog may be quiet lately but my house never is. It’s full of laughter. All of the girls may soon leave the “tobbler” stage, but I still anticipate many funny one-liners coming my way. I’m here for all of it.
Lauren's Law 