Toddlerhood - the ultimate juxtaposition of extremes (ramblings on parenthood)

When you live with a toddler, there is never a dull moment--lots of exasperating, euphoric, infuriating, joyous, frustrating, elated, tender moments--but never a dull moment. With a 2-year-old there are new revelations every single day; a million different "firsts" and every one gives you joy. Watching your child learn can be the most sublime experience, until their learning turns to frustration, and their sweet toddler sounds turn to full-voice screaming. When toddlers are happy they are the most enjoyable little people in the world. Their bright little smiles have the power to melt your heart in a second, no matter how dispirited you were feeling before. It's almost indescribable how wonderful they are. On the other hand if things aren't going their way, they will not only let you know, they will let the whole neighborhood know. And this happens frequently. Screaming and whining have become as much a part of the background noise at our house as Baby Einstein.