All aboard the Mommy Express.

I took a class at the seminary once and the professor talked briefly about how we should not exasperate our children. We often place expectations on our children that put unnecessary strife in our lives. Picking battles is a fact of life for me and Ben. Connor is so willful that we have to be willing to fight any battle we pick to the bitter end.

A new territory that Connor is starting to wage war on is bedtime. He doesn't want to go, can't go to sleep, is too thirsty, didn't eat enough, can't shut off his brain, needs it to be lighter in his room, needs it to be darker in his room, and on and on. Seriously...this kid has a million reasons why he can't go to bed.

Like the best of generals fighting in a war, I have tried several bed time tactics. I launched a small and somewhat successful, you won't get a story tomorrow night if you don't go to bed right now, campaign. Although it was somewhat successful, it was still a battle and one I was getting sick of fighting.

However, in an effort not to exasperate my son, I have developed a new tactic. My new approach is simple, quick, and effective. When Connor starts complaining about bedtime I shout "Oh no! The Mommy Express is leaving in 12 seconds." I then start the countdown, he climbs up onto my back for a piggy back ride and I take off. He rides into bed where in there is much hugging and kissing and sweet dream wishing. Crisis averted.

Mom: 1
Connor: 11,000

It's never too late for a comeback!