Discipline Of The Parent Kind

To the non-parent folks out there, I apologize in advance for this snooze fest.

As you are aware, I am the proud parent of an almost 2 year old.  We are officially in the stage of attitude, personality, tantrums and the remarkable pout.  I sometimes have to turn away as I do not want her to catch me cracking a smile or laughing at some of these "episodes," but folks let's be honest, some of them are just down right funny.  Others, make me want to run away to a far away land filled with wine, cheese and chocolate, a beach and an ocean.

I have without a doubt filled the disciplinarian role in our household so far.  I spend more time with Mia so it's just worked out that way.  The hubs works a ton, so when they are together it's all rainbows, unicorns and puffy hearts.  Not so much with me.  It's not all bad, believe me, most of it is happy and fun, but there are some challenging days and even more ahead of me.

As we were watching the Cardinals clinch the NL Wild Card playoff spot last night (WOOHOO!), in bed, we were chatting.  Hubs made a comment in discussing Mia, that all I ever say to her is things like "No," "Be Careful," etc.  He said a lot of what I say to Mia is sometimes negative and like she is always in trouble.  Well, excuuuuuse me (best Mom voice, with a hint of major attitude)!  I don't critique his discipline techniques, or lack there of and I'm not sure I appreciated him critiquing mine. It made me realize that we are really not on the same page here, which was pretty disappointing and upsetting.  We are still very new at this whole parenting thing and up until the last few months discipline has not been part of the picture.  We'll get there, together, there is no question.  It's just another bump in the road of marriage and raising a child.  It did make me think though, am I doing "it" all wrong???  It makes me question my success as a parent.  At the end of the day I know it is my responsibility that she learn right from wrong.  She needs to know that as much as I would love to give her the world, that is not how life works.  She is the center of everyone's universe in our families and is constantly being given things.  I want to be sure she stays grounded and appreciates what she has.  She's only 2 and I get that, but I feel like you have to start somewhere.

I'm pretty sure someone needs to tell her that it's not ok to jump from the couch to the ottoman right next to our brick fireplace.  Just sayin.'

Suggestions? Advice?  Do share!

Have a great Thursday!!