Copy Cats

Lately whenever Ellen does something, Sophie wants to do it, too. It also works the other way--when Sophie does something, Ellen wants to, too. This is maddening at times and cute at others. It's cute when they copy each other "feeding" their babies (like in above photos). But when one heads toward me and wants to be picked up and held, and the other anticipates that move and races to also be held -- even trying to beat the other to the punch -- it becomes just plain hard! I'm working on just enjoying each moment of each day. But we're in a stage of the girls wanting me to themselves -- my lap, my arms, reading a book just to one -- and some days I want to throw up my hands. Also because Ellen and Sophie are very proficient tantrum throw-ers. It never ceases to amaze me when Ellen throws herself on the floor. I still think to myself, "Is that really my child?!" I am thankful that it has humbled me as a mom, as more than once I have been that mom, with that child, walking across the parking lot or leaving storytime with a toddler who is going nuts and throwing a tantrum for any number of reasons. This was NEVER my experience with Corinne. But now I get it. Kids are kids, no matter what. You can put firm boundaries in place, discipline them with tough love, pray for and teach them to be good-mannered, etc and they can still embarass you and act out. I am humbled and frequently remind people that there is no judgement from this mom. Nope. I've been there, too. (Sophie in purple)