The F______ Fours?

Okay, so I don't mean the "'F-Word' Fours." Well, maybe some of the time. What I mean is that, "Hi-my-name-is-Kristen-and-I-expected-some-kind-of-180-in-my-child's-behavior-on-her-fourth-birthday." I admit it. I had always heard about "the Terrible Twos," and even "the Trying Threes." I suppose I figured that since I had never heard about the Fours (and in fact, could almost swear that I had been told "Four is SO much better/more fun!"), then it meant that my sweet, but SUPER-headstrong little girl would magically outgrow the tantrums. Haha. <--- (that is me laughing at myself)

Dealing with Addie as a four-year-old has been a challenge lately. She is so sweet and loving, but can also be...well...(for lack of a better term): a brat. To say that she is stubborn would be the understatement of the year. She's quite happy-go-lucky, until she's not getting exactly what she wants. Then it is a complete 180 and the tantrums, meltdowns and defiance begin. I am at a loss, to be quite honest. I've gotten mixed advice from other moms & dads: "Be stricter." "Maybe you're being too strict." Who knows what to do?! But I never thought I'd have the kid who others watch and think, "Man, that kid is being obnoxious!" Guilty. Is she spoiled? Yeah, probably. And this is where my working mom guilt comes in a little bit. I choose my "battles" in what little time I have with my children. Maybe that means she's been told "no" fewer times than she could've/should've been. But what can ya do?

I think I should've taken better notes at her four-year checkup, because John Michael has reminded me a few times that Dr. Hood said, "Four is when girls start getting really whiny, so be prepared." So perhaps this is just a phase? I hope so. I mean, I'd be lying if I said she has always been "easy." In fact, the traits that wear me out are many of the traits I am so proud that she has, knowing/hoping she'll be a strong young woman. But GOODNESS! Some days I think I won't survive four years old with sanity intact.

Good thing she's cute :)

("exercising" with Daddy and the Wii/EA Active. With Christmas tights on. Love this girl!!!!!)