I feel as though they should be called the "Terrifying Twos"

The Terrible Twos: Fact Versus Fiction

General truth about the terrible twos: Two-year-olds are opinionated.

Why it’s tough: Two-year-olds are opinionated. But so are sixteen-year-olds, five-year-olds, and nine-year-olds. Two-year-olds probably get the bad rap, then, because they have opinions without a shred of self-consciousness — they couldn’t care less if you’re in public when they decide it’s worth shrieking bloody murder to defend their principles.
Why it’s not so terrible: If you think about it, at least with two-year-olds, you know where you stand. They aren’t shy about letting you know what they want, which is more than you might get from a cagey teenager.

General truth about the terrible twos: Two-year-olds have flawed reasoning.

Why it’s tough: While two-year-olds can talk (either sort of, or completely, depending on the kid), their reasoning sometimes calls for a code breaker. You can argue with — or even disagree with — a coherent opinion. But a sobbing two-year-old sometimes doesn’t make any sense, and it’s difficult to calm someone down when you have no clear notion of what’s upsetting her.
Why it’s not so terrible: You can be pretty sure you’ll be able to outwit a two-year-old. So even if you’re not entirely clear about what’s troubling her, you have a great shot at distracting her. And, hey, when dealing with an opinionated two-year-old, you also have size on your side. You can always pick her up and remove her from a situation, which is something you can’t always do with a grade-schooler.

General truth about the terrible twos: Two-year-olds are slaves to their moods.

Why it’s tough: They’re hungry. Or tired. And in between, they’re often cranky. So are we, of course, but two-year-olds don’t have the ability to rise above it the way older people do. Sometimes their mental or physical gas tanks hit empty — and a two-year-old running on fumes is not a pretty sight.
Why it’s not so terrible: Fortunately, if you know this about two-year-olds, you can guard against meltdowns by being prepared with snacks and engaging toys, and by tackling errands (or activities) after your child has napped. With a little planning, you really can circumvent some ugly scenes.

General truth about the terrible twos: Two-year-olds have nothing better to do.

Why it’s tough: A snit that lasts all morning and makes everyone late is not a problem for a two-year-old. It’s not as if she’s got other plans for the day.
Why it’s not so terrible: If you tell someone you were late because you were managing a tantrum from your two-year-old, you will most likely be met with sympathy. This ready-made excuse for lateness can come in handy…even on days when your toddler isn’t to blame.

General truth about the terrible twos: It’s a state of mind.

Why it’s tough: The “terrible twos” can hit at 18 months or at 34 months. It’s less an age than a stage of development, so you may be dealing with it when you least expect it.
Why it’s not so terrible: Your child may breeze right by year two (or three) without making you think the word “terrible” — especially if you make a point of focusing on (and savoring) — the wonderful moments that undoubtedly mark the terrific twos.
See more toddler behavior and discipline tips.

An evening with Mommy

We made some gerbera daisy hanging baskets.

Found some rogue violets to transplant as our own.

Got up close and personal with some friendly, busy ants.

Collected some rocks.

And took a lovely evening stroll.... have we mentioned how much we love Spring?

Athena and Zoe

Ms. Bee tries so hard to walk Zoe, but she is a COMPLETE PSYCHO when the leash comes out. Luckily Athena thinks it's hilarious even when it hits her. Her Zo Zo can do no wrong.

Don't just stand there...

Bust a move!

The Beach

It was in the 80's and just lovely. We finished off the day with a trip to Gammy's and a fruit market.

21 months!

"Mmmmmmm tortellini......"

OH MY GOSH!!!!! 21 MONTHS??? CRAZINESS!

Height 31 inches - only 5th percentile (shorty!)
Weight 26lbs - only 25th percentile

Current favorite food: Spinach and cheese tortellini
Favorite beverage: Breast milk STILL
Favorite shows: Yo Gabba Gabba, Max and Ruby, and Wow Wow Wubbzy
Favorite toys: Yo Gabba Gabba dolls
Favorite book: Max Counts His Chickens
Favorite activity: Art

What's she saying right now?
"BEAUTIFUL!" "Where is_____?"
What's new?
Horrible temper tantrums and nightmares. Awesome. We're back to getting up every couple hours. She's also getting to where she wants to take care of things. She loves doting on her baby doll and trying to wipe Zoe's butt.
Up Next?
Potty training. She's very intrigued by it and wants to sit on it. She'll stay there for a sec but then says "No." and jumps off. She wants to watch everybody go and would like to help wipe. Her new baby doll goes potty and this is FASCINATING.
Also, time to start working on birthday party #2. Can't wait!

She has no fear.

The first time I looked out the window and saw Louis rocketing Athena down the driveway I nearly died. Now she does it herself. (Sigh) I'm in for a lot of ER visits for stitches with this one.