dustbunny responded April 28, 2008 at 10:00PM

  dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

try fake distractions...I learned that if you go "who, what's that?" during a bribery build-up, it can sometimes get you off the hook...I try to save the bribes but if you hear a mom yelling "if you don't sit down right now in that shopping cart or you can't watch the simpsons" it's me...I can't believe the things I say sometimes :)

also, "as soon as you ____, we can do ______" also works...and "I'll wait" is sometimes a least expected alternative to a bribe...just stand there and wait. it works for pressure free times - look at your fake watch, wave to someone, whistle...they look at you like your nuts...or throw snacks...that works too :) good luck! try the fake distraction, if anything it's entertaining. pretend you see a fly and follow it clear across the room...say "did you see that? oh, man...did you?" they forget that they were just about to wear you away...:)

  benbaby responded April 29, 2008 at 10:25AM

  Goofing around with my babies - Big and Lil

Hmmm ! Guess its time for me learn some tricks before my toddler gets too demanding.

  hsatkins responded April 29, 2008 at 1:49PM

  Hoping to give Olivia a sibling in 2009! (or 10)

Thank you for the ideas! I do try distracting her - but she is catching on to my tricks - LOL - she is a smart cookie these days!
BenBaby - LOL - if you come up with some, let me know!!

  RainbowDash responded April 29, 2008 at 4:59PM

  They're cute when they're alseep!

I think you also have to pick your battles. In this stage she is probably asserting her independence and she needs to get away with a few things! ;)

  RainbowDash responded April 29, 2008 at 5:00PM

  They're cute when they're alseep!

Oh, one more - it's just a stage and this too shall pass!