My sweet natured, easy-going, laid back “take me anywhere” baby has become a nightmare.

Last year she was an angel when we went to the circus. She slept through half of it and happily took in the sights and sounds the other half. This year was different.

She wanted to be down so she could walk, but she refused to hold anyone’s hand. She didn’t want to sit in anyone’s lap, but she refused to sit in her own seat.

The entire show was spent juggling her, appeasing her with snacks, trying to engage her and did I mention the baby juggling?

She’s also figured out how to hit. And pull hair. And pinch.

Needless to say, it was the longest circus ever. But it wasn’t just the circus. She’s also decided she no longer wants to sit nicely when we go out to eat. She wants to throw everything on the floor, climb onto the table and scream and yell until she gets her way.

The problem is, we have no idea what she wants or what “her way” is. She has learned to shake her head “no” and throw whatever it is we hand her, but she can’t tell us what she does want.

Needless to say, the last few times we ate out have been a bit challenging.

Cheeks has decided she has no use for boundaries. Or appropriate behavior. Or delayed gratification.

In short, she’s one hundred and ten percent a toddler! A strong willed, independent, adventure seeking toddler.

And me? Well, my patience is intact. I know this is a phase that will pass in time, but I let out a huge sigh of relief when she falls asleep! Huge!

Related posts:

1. Circus Time