Potty Training

It was time. Looking back, I would not recommend doing this with a one month old baby. I believe "duh" is in order, but you live and learn. We had the doll, we read the book, and we bought the panties. I was fully stocked with cleaning supplies and towels, but nothing could have prepared me for the emotional and physical marathon the "Big Day" would be. I think they recommend throwing the diapers away not for the visual benefit of the child but more for the sleep deprived mother to have no other option when she is cleaning up accident #7 off of the already soaked carpet. In all fairness the book did try to prepare you for the days events and mentioned that patience would be necessary. However, it also painted a magical picture of how this was to be a wonderful growing experience where you and your toddler would make memories filled with goody gumdrops and tiny fairies that you would cherish forever. This is false advertising.

Our trip down lollipop lane was a bit more rocky. After a full day of practice, attempting to exercise patience, and a full 2 Liter of apple juice (most of which ended up on my carpet in a slightly different color) we had success. I nearly cried, and Alex's smile couldn't have been bigger. She was so proud of herself. Once she finally figured out what it was she was supposed to do she has rarely had an accident since. And now I have an even bigger reason to buy new carpet.

In the end, yes it was a miserable day, but it was only one miserable day. I do need to count my lucky stars and give credit to a smart and obedient girl who is a fast learner. Kudos Alex. I don't have any pictures of this segment due to other more pressing matters at the time, but let's be honest that is not something you want to see anyway.

What you do want to see is the happily ever after. As a reward for learning to go on the potty, Alex got a new animal. We took a train ride, which Alex has been wanting to do for a long time, to make it extra special. And truly we could have stopped there, judging by the sheer joy on her face. We gladly welcomed Baa Baa (this is in addition to the Hop Hop we already have - our creativity knows no bounds) to the family as well as many diaper and accident free days in the future.