Reflections on Mommyhood

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Contents

Preface
The Presence
Waiting
Time Bomb
Wolf, Wolf
Rough Passage
The Newborn
Garage Sales and Baby
Mom's Conflict
Another Battle
The Transformation
My Child
Vacation with Baby
Busy Baby
The Battle
Horsie
Exploring
At Thirteen and Fourteen Months
Books and Puzzles
Christmas 1984
Lookie, Mommy
Toddler Words
A is for Ark
Me, Daniel
Three Little Words
Mommy, It Hurts
Daniel
No
Why?
Tired Again
Comparisons
Two Little Boys
A Father's Pride
Number Two Son
Tears
Oh, God
Too Soon

No

 

My little boy has two new words-
An interesting thing.
They're "No" and "Mine" and there are times
They make his bottom sting.

I ask him if he wants his milk
And "No" he'll surely say.
Since I phrased it as a question
I figure, that's okay.

But when I make him a statement
"Come here" or "Get your shoes"
I mean what I say, son, don't delay,
In this you cannot choose.

Maybe I'll say, "Go get my shoes."
He'll get them--very fine!
But then he'll hold them close to him
And tell me they are "Mine."

Is he defiant or playing?
It matters, yes indeed.
Whether I spank or firmly guide,
My child must learn to heed.

And so I pray for some guidance
And wisdom as I learn
How to care for my toddler dear
When spankings he would earn.

I pray I'll be consistent, Lord,
With mercy when it's due,
Just as you treat your children.
Lord, I pray he'll be one too.
Copyright © 1988 by Judith E. Garling

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