Target did not hit the mark when it comes to young families

10/30/2009
Yesterday I ventured out to Target with the boys.  It was my first attempt at taking Brodie in his "big boy underwear."  I was a little nervous, but I decided it was now or never.  He made it on the car ride, we entered the store and I asked if he needed to go, but he declined.  He made it the entire shopping trip.  Just as I was about to check out is when he announced he had to pee.  So we went into the "family restroom." I was expecting a large private area with toddler-sized toilet and sink and maybe a place to sit Braden down that wasn't gross.  Well, I don't know what the big deal is about these "family restrooms."  It was nothing more than an oversized private bathroom.  I struggled to help Brodie pull down his pants, all the while holding onto Braden because there was no place to put him.  Then, being the germaphobe that I am, I wouldn't let him sit on the public toilet.  So I bravely let go of Braden, all the while pleading with him not to explore the bathroom.  I held Brodie over the toilet and had to talk him into going.  He did, but then I had to hold him to wash his hands.  We both got wet in the process.  Then I had to wash Braden's hands since he couldn't resist touching the garbage can.  When it was said and done, I was sweaty and ready for a NAP!  Target and all other public places that claim to have a family restroom, I plead with you to please make it "toddler friendly."  I think what it is really there for is to separate the little kids from all of the other customers so they don't have to listen to my little bundles of joy.

Mama's got eyes in the back of her head!

(This happened 2 weeks ago)
Brad and I took the boys to daycare and had a "date day" for Brad's 30th birthday.  We went to pick them up (earlier than usual) and opened the door to Brodie's classroom.  All of the kids were seated in a circle listening to the teacher read a story.  Right as I opened the door, I witnessed Brodie pushing another child next to him.  My mama instinct took over and I called out, "Brodie, what are you doing?" Well, since the teacher now knew that I saw it, I had to look like the disciplinarian that I am and follow through.  He jumped up and ran over to me, huge smile on his face, his arms outstretched for his hugs from us.  I stood still like a stone wall (Stonewall Mama) and refused to show affection until he went back to apologize to the little boy.  He drug his feet and kept saying no, until he saw I wasn't going to cave and he did the right thing.  The teacher didn't go into specifics, but it sounded like the other boy started it.  All I can say is, he doesn't have to finish it with his fists.  Ms. R explained that in the 3 year old class he is to use his words and tell the boy to stop.  Good luck at home with little brother Braden, he doesn't understand that yet!