quote of the day

Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.  -Albert Einstein

Jude possesses all of the characteristics of a spirited child: intense, powerful, always full of energy, argumentative, sensitive, curious, adventurous, perceptive, and persistent. I know these sound like the traits of any child but what makes a "spirited" child different is that you can add the word more before each one of the characteristics when describing them. Actually, more  isn't even accurate when describing Jude. It's like he takes each one of these traits to a whole other level you didn't even know was possible!  The downside to this is that he requires SOOOOOOO much of my energy and brainpower. The upside is that there is never a dull moment when he's around! Ever since he learned to walk, he has been a challenge for me. Not in a bad way, just a way that I have to constantly be on my toes and thinking. I have to have a preconceived strategy for how to handle daily situations with Jude.

When we leave a playgroup, I have to know exactly what I will say to get him to leave without a meltdown. When we're having something new for dinner, I have to explain that it's a recipe from Star Wars that will make him strong like a Jedi ; ) When we go to a park or somewhere new, I have to explain the boundaries and expectations in advance. When we put his socks and shoes on, they have to be absolutely perfect with no annoying seams or wrinkles. I bought some new flip flops for his birthday and he wouldn't wear them because one felt a little tighter than the other and he couldn't stand it. He can walk into a store, house, or restaurant and immediately notice if any light bulbs are burned out. He can cry for 45 minutes straight over a tiny rip in a piece of paper. The list goes on and on. 

So yes, when night time finally rolls around, my energy level and patience is usually exhausted and I have probably gotten annoyed or frustrated a few too many times throughout the day. However, each day I wake up a better mom because of Jude. I read all that I can on how to be a better parent. I love him for every part of who he is and I'm thrilled he is so spirited and unique. I know he will achieve some amazing things in his lifetime. 

And just when I said I could never have a child more difficult and spirited than Jude, along came Lennon!    

This is Lennon in mid scream. If you've ever been around Lennon, you know the scream I'm talking about. The one that is so high pitched you're sure your ear drums will explode if he doesn't stop, the one that makes everyone in the restaurant turn and look at you, the one you just can't help but admire for all it's power : ) More on his little soul later....