Oh Ernie

We bought Kaitlyn a book about going potty featuring Ernie from Sesame Street- well she always asks for this book before bed for two reasons:
1. She loves it
2. Ernie hides and is always at the bottom of the basket and very hard to find.

So for the second time that day (I had to remove all books from the basket that morning before school because of the need to hear Ernie) I am pulling every book out in order to find Ernie. We are getting ready for bed so the light is low and she isn't throwing a tantrum just patiently repeatedly asking for Ernie. Many curse words have come to mind about Ernie at this moment but trying to be a good mom I keep it to myself.

I am tired, and sore and leaning over the chair with my large pregnant belly weighing on me to find a book about a muppet who goes potty wasn't my plan for the night. Feeling the frustration mount I briefly put my head in my hands and try to hold back hormonal exhausted tears (many of you won't understand almost crying because you can't find Ernie for your toddler but I am betting moms to toddlers especially pregnant ones can sympathize). Anyway I catch my breath, go over and turn the light on so I can see and get down on my hands and knees to find Ernie.

Now that part that makes it all worthwhile

My toddler girl comes over to me and pats me on the back in that comforting way that people can do. As if to say "sorry you don't feel good mommy, thanks for looking for my book" Whether this is what she meant or not, that is my story and I am sticking to it.