Caleb, nearing age 3, has had an especially difficult adjustment to a new baby in the house. For those who really know Caleb, this is no big surprise. He just isn't an easy kid. He's gonna push the envelope in every way, shape and form. Stubborn is putting it gently. Guess that's what you get from a kid whose name means "doggedly determined." Maybe a name change might help??? I only wish!!!
Anyway, in the throes of dealing with transition issues, we have been blessed with moments of levity...
During prayer time one night this week (all were in PJ's, piled on couches in the living room), Caleb was being especially distracting. I sent him to his room and told him he'd have to miss prayer time. I told him to go straight to bed. Usually, this elicits tears and objections as he hates being left out. But, he trotted into his room readily.
However, instead of getting into bed, he began playing with his big train set. He was putting tracks together. I heard all of this. Normally, I would go into his room and correct him. But, as we were all praying, I ignored it for the moment. After prayer time, as I was tucking the kids in, I addressed Caleb's offense.
Mommy: Caleb, what did Mommy ask you to do when you left the living room?
Caleb: Go to my room and go to bed.
Mommy: Did you obey?
Caleb (silent)Mommy: Caleb, what have you been doing in here?
(Here's my tactic to get him to realize that he had not obeyed).Caleb paused, then answered
in song:
I'VE BEEN WORKIN' ON THE RAILROAD, ALL THE LIVE-LONG DAY....
I'VE BEEN WORKIN' ON THE RAILROAD, JUST TO PASS THE TIME AWAY...Clever answer for a not-yet 3 year old. I was impressed with his quick thinking. Yet, the hammer had to fall.
But later, Tony and I shared a good laugh!
Aunt April edited this pic...love it! 
