Vivien now wants to do everything by herself and we are in big trouble if we try to help. Getting dressed, putting on pull-ups or panties, getting in the car… these are all things that can make Sybil appear if we get in her way.

We were having some battles but last night, instead of getting into it, I calmly said, “Here’s your pull-up. Let me know when you are ready for bed.” And I walked away. God, it was so much nicer than “Come here, get in your PJ’s, wait, don’t take off your pull-ups,” etc.  A few minutes later, sweet as can be, she said, “I’m ready for bed, Mommy.”

Really? Almost surprised when I’m not more ragged out.