Surviving the "Terrible Two's"

Well, a much better week it has been. David is still trying at times but the past few days we've managed to love on each other a little bit and mommy is learning how to cope much better. I am reading a very interesting book about child training and the author argues against the "world's view" about stages. He says they don't really exist and states that the Bible doesn't recognize them. He also goes to say that if parents implement this biblical principle,and refer to the Bible for instruction, then their children never go through them. I am still coming up with an opinion about this but I have figured out little "tricks" that seem to simmer down his tantrums and when all else fails, out of desperation, I pray with him. This really gets him quiet; he'll stop his ranting and look at me perplexed and listen intently. Works every time. (so far) David has also "graduated" to his toddler bed and actually staying in it. He wasn't too keen on sleeping in the full-bunk bed, even with the cool truck sheets. So, I decided to break his crib down to the toddler setting. He as adapted so well, we feel very fortunate. On dilemna though, is regardless of what time he goes to bed, he wakes up ~ 5:45- 6:00 am most mornings. It's been very frustating and we debate on how to respond to it, which is stressful. However, praise God! The past two mornings he slept 'til 7:00. Whew. much better. Quick note about Daniel: he's a little sweetheart, but a monster in disguise. He does the funniest, wackiest things and has no fear. Climbing on everything, digging in the dirt (eating most of it) and going down the slide almost by himself, he'll even push David on his big wheel. He has the best kissing cheeks ever and he and David love to chase each other around the island in the kitchen. Me and the boys are getting prepared for daddy to go on his mission trip to Brazil next weekend. It won't be fun, but we know God is going to bless all of us for being obedient and the people of the Amazon will also be blessed.