Since Four Came

Since Peyton turned four, I kind of forgot about my blog. I'm just gonna let you know that four might as well mean 14 around here. Not since sleep training Peyton as an infant have we come up against such a confusing parenting challenge. I've been reading and talking about the issue, and basically for the first time seeking out parenting 101 skills. I'm keeping it vague on purpose, because I don't really want to complain about my child's struggles here.

But some things I've learned that help with my newly emotioned (making up words here) four-year-old:

quality time
empathy
not shouting - me
keeping my calm
and most of all, quality time.

QT. It's got to be Peyton's love language. And quality time with other family members is not the same as quality time with Mommy. I've learned the hard way. She will have my attention one way or the other. Know what I'm sayin'? It has to be noteworthy that on the days I don't do [so many] chores and give lots of face time to Pey, she is remarkably well-behaved and follows directions, etc. I know it isn't always as mathematical as that, but like I said it's worth noting.

So since four came, I've been busy, bewildered, grasping for answers, in need of learning. Oh and turning a year older and being sick. I was laid out in the bed all day yesterday with fever from bronchitis. I feel human again today, thanks to antibiotics that make my stomach hurt. Blake made me an oh-so-delish coconut cake for my birthday, a slice of which I am enjoying right now. Also, my besties Amanda and Kelley took me out for a pedicure and some much needed shopping and girl time on Saturday. Thanks again ladies!

P.S.
I'm so glad it's warm and my little girls can wear shorts. Their legs are so cute!