This is a face I see many times a day:
With toddlers that’s just the way it is. I’m learning to accept that these bursts of sadness are not a criticism or an attempt to send me mad but a ‘Help me Mummy, I don’t know what to do.’ It is certainly a lot easier to open my arms time and time again when I think of it that way.
Indeed Neirin is very much like the autumn weather we are seeing every day, cloudy one moment, sunny the next. And to illustrate my point here is a series of photos I took in about 10 seconds while Neirin was engaged in one of his favourite tasks, hoovering.
Sad boy (hoover not cooperating)
maybe there’s hope…
sun peeking out…
sunbeams.
Of course in a moment the wind can change and we are back to
But the clouds always part revealing blue skies beyond; I’m always looking out for the sun. Because when he shines,
It’s magic.
Emmalina and Her Unfeasibly Large Bonnet 
You said girl! I am going through that season with my little one – 2 1/2!
Thanks for reminding me that she is not out to make me mad – and you are right tenderness is what they really want.
Namaste.
Nicole
It doesn’t get easier does it?! These early years are so tough, I’m constantly trying to remind myself that he is just trying to get what he needs not send me into madness. But sometimes it is hard to believe! The more I give myself over to his need for hugs and holding the easier it seems to go : )
Love it!!!
Thanks lovely!
Oh my gosh so true. I’m always amazed when my little girl is crying and laughing at the same time, like she can’t decide which mood to go with. It must be so hard for our little toddlers to figure out the feelings they have inside. And opening your arms to your little one to let them know it’s OK is the best idea ever. 🙂
Lol, I’ve seen Neirin switch emotions in the same breath! You are right, they are still trying to figure out what they feel, minute to minute it seems to change. I try and remind myself of how I feel when I’m overwhelmed and imagine what I would want. I can’t always do it but when I can it makes all the difference : )
This is so beautifully put. Our children certainly do have hose grey sky moments, but when the clouds part and the sun peeks through, the warmth of their sunshine is truly amazing. Thank you for the beautiful reminder.
Thanks Heather, your comments always make me smile. You are right, they are amazing and the moments of sunshine are truly worth it.
I remember seeing this post…oh it SO reminds me of my own little one! ha…I imagine you could probably capture the same pictures of MY face in response to hers…the tears, JOY, laughter, anger.
Oh to be human really IS divine!
xo maureen
It comforts me to know that there is a universality to this experience, these moments of chaos and confusion. I know that I am not alone in my madness and joy. This is an age I find particularly challenging but there are moments of cuteness that are ridiculously irresistible. Nature’s way of getting us through I guess!