Saturday, January 10, 2009

Battle of Wills

Since the day she was born, my daughter has been strong willed. I know it's a trait that will serve her well in adult life. In the meantime, it makes life interesting. A week ago, my parents came for dinner and stayed to play some cards. Of course, she had no interest in bedtime since grandma and grandpa were over. Every attempt to put her in bed was unsuccessful. Finally, after putting her to down several times, we decided to ignore the unacceptable behavior. It was late. She was tired. She knew it was bedtime. As we played our game in the kitchen, she stood at the top of the stairs whining about how she wasn't tired (long past her bedtime). We kept playing. Over a period of time, she slowly inched her way down the stairs until she finally gave up. We hoped she would give up and go to bed herself. No such luck. She gave up the fight most reluctantly as she literally fell asleep where she was. On a step. That couldn't have been comfortable. But, that's my strong willed girl. Parenting is so hard, especially when you don't know what is the best thing to do for the situation. We just know that once you pick your battle, you cannot lose. This was an especially tough one. And look how cute she is when she's asleep.



9 comments:

Denise Snyder said...

Oh yeah... been there! She does look adorable though!

Ali said...

Awwwww :o)

Allison said...

Oh my goodness, Julie. This is so precious. I love how she even looks determined in her sleep. I know what a challenge it is to parent a strong willed child, but I have been promised by so many who have trod this path before me that this strength of will can be shaped into strength of character. She is going to be something incredible. I am so happy to watch her little life story be told!

Picture Perfect said...

Parenting is not for wienies - lol.
You are such a good mom Julie!

sherry boles~ said...

How sweet! :)
I believe that I fight this battle daily with my little one...and I thought the first one was challenging...*sigh*

Anonymous said...

This is so cute!!!!! I love her determination but I know that it can be painful to go through. (speaking from my own experiences with my kids)

Anonymous said...

This is so cute!!!!! I love her determination but I know that it can be painful to go through. (speaking from my own experiences with my kids)

Patti Mustain said...

What you did with your daughter is awesome! You sound like a great parent. Love the pj's!

Anonymous said...

Ohh... love this. What children are willing to endure lol. Love it!!