Dealing with Thomas's toddler issues seems about a thousand times easier than dealing with Nat's. Practice, I think, plus that aside from early waking Thomas is an easier, more laid-back kid. Nat's natural tendency is to do the opposite of whatever he's told to do. If he decides to comply, you can still see him considering his options. On bad days I bark at him a lot. On good days I tell him, "Well, I'm sorry you don't want to come out for a walk with us. Thomas and I are ready to go. Bye!"

That results in him madly running for his coat and boots.

Today we're going to a low-stress, low energy trip to Costco. Sigh. We're almost out of test strips, and I think I should stock up on peanut butter sandwich-making supplies. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go throw up.