No, no, no...

I've recently read an article on discipline that had some great ideas for this first time Mom. Among other things it discusses the word "No," how and when it should be used. It explains that "No" is a powerful word and should be used when it is most needed. For example...when your child runs out into the street, or tries to touch the hot stove...these are times when "No" should be used. It should not be used lightly. If you use it for every little situation, it loses meaning. I've discovered that I had been using "No" too much. I was saying "No" to too many things and not being very creative. Our language has so many more words to use, and I'm trying to find other ways of telling Mr. Boy "No" without using the word. It has been interesting. I'm trying to teach with positive words, rather than negative. Sometimes it's hard. I understand that at this age children don't get something the first time you say it and then you're done, but sometimes the repetition is overwhelming. During the weeks that Mr. Man is at work, I deal with what I deal with and see my light at the end of the tunnel when Mr. Boy is in bed and I can have a nice soak in the tub. On his weeks off...well, sometimes I just need a break! Yesterday was a day that I had to call Mr. Man home from his man bonding for a break. *gasp* It was a lovely afternoon, spent by myself (and the rest of the Saturday shoppers...that's another post, that is!) shopping, and looking, and shopping. I miss this the most. When your toddler has started toddling and wants to get down out of the stroller and explore everything, shopping is not a fun thing to do. I did a little tour of the thrift stores in our area. Trash or Treasure? To each his own, right? I found a great skirt that is perfect for spring...when it's not raining (the soft colors probably wouldn't look so hot with my black/silver/turquoise polka dot gum boots)...for only $4. I tried unsuccessfully to only think of myself while I was out, and not the pressures of motherhood and my sweet little boy at home, but I found myself buying stuff for Mr. Boy anyway. I'm a sucker for books, so I picked up a few of those and I found a mini gardening set with a watering can, that will be great in the Easter basket, for only 75 cents. After gathering my wits and regaining my composure I headed home to find that Mr. Man had Mr. Boy down for a nap and dinner cooking on the stove. Thank you Mr. Man for the break...you done good!