As Savannah turned one, her will and opinion also turned on. She has responded well to discipline, and she definitely understands no now. The hardest part about this stage is not knowing how much she understands.  I’m realizing that she understands a lot more than I think she does.  She has had one huge meltdown at home (ironically when family was visiting), and after several disciplinary techniques, she settled down.  During the past few days, she has been pushing her limits while we are out and about.  I know she is testing me to see if she gets her way in public. Little does she know (but she will) that my will is much stronger than hers.

This week Kyle’s been out of town and both of our playdates cancelled, so by lunchtime today I was ready for some real conversation.  My mom and dad agreed to meet us for lunch at Logan’s.  If you haven’t tried it already, you have to try the Kickin’ Chicken Logan’s salad–it is delicious! After a few minutes, Savannah decided that she didn’t want to sit at the table anymore.  Then the crying began.  This is the moment that you feel completely responsible for controlling your child, but you know that it may not be pretty.  I’m up for the challenge, so I take her to the bathroom.  When we get back to the table, she immediately looks to Mimi to save her.  As my mom is holding her, one of the waitresses comes up to the table, puts her arms forward as if she is going to pick up my daughter and says to Savannah, “Do you want to walk around?” Savannah is still crying and fussing, she then goes to offer her ice cream.  I’m in a bit of shock, but somehow managed to say, “No thank you she is fine.”

What?  You have got to be kidding me.  First of all, who goes to pick up a child that you don’t even know and offer to walk her around?  Secondly, who offers a child ice cream without asking the mom first? Why did she think it was her job to console my child.  At the time Savannah needed discipline, not consoling.  It was the first time that I felt the “village” trying to help me raise my child–and I did not like it at all.  I know this was just one individual exerting herself, but this lady was pushing my limit.  After another trip to the bathroom, Savannah found her patience to sit at the table and enjoy the rest of the meal. Maybe I should get a hat to wear next time, that says, ” I know my child is having an issue right now, but I’m dealing with it, and I would appreciate it if you would just leave us alone and not give her MORE attention. Thanks!”