You hit the jackpot.
You’re able to get away for a night or two, get someone to watch the kid and grab a nice dinner, get a nice buzz, and relax. You’re granted a brief reprieve from the terrible twos or terrible threes or whatever the case may be, and you have a well-deserved night or two of child-free fun. It’s been a long time coming, and it won’t be coming along again anytime soon.
And yet, despite your need for time away from him, you can’t help but miss your kid. Despite your better instincts, you actually can’t wait to get home and see him!
Until you do.
For parents, absence makes the heart grow fonder. For kids, familiarity breeds contempt.
All weekend long, all you’ve been hearing from your sister or your brother or your parents is what a little angel your kid has been. He’s eating like a champ, sleeping through the night, staying calm when told ‘no’ and generally acting like Christ reborn. He’s such a good little boy! It just reinforces your desire to be reunited, vacation be damned!
Then you walk in and it all goes to hell in a hurry.
Suddenly it’s a 15-minute struggle just to get his shoes on. He’s acting like a lunatic, running away from you, screaming ‘no!’ and generally making your family reunion worse than a high school reunion. It’s kind of amazing to see the Jekyll and Hyde routine in action. Forget about drinking a potion and waiting around for a transformation; my son’s behavior changes instantaneously. And then, so does mine.
At first, you’re excited to see his sweet little face, and you want nothing more than to give him a big hug, but it doesn’t take long before you’re frustrated, pissed off, and yelling at the kid to do as he’s told and get his goddamn shoes on! Meanwhile, your sister-in-law or your brother or your parents – having seen nothing but the best from the little guy all weekend long – are quickly convinced you’re overreacting, which makes you feel even worse.
It’s great for his reputation – everyone in my family thinks he’s the perfect child – but it’s terrible for ours. People either think we have an amazingly low threshold for tolerating (such infrequent!) toddler antics and are therefore shitty parents, or they think we’re completely insane. It’s like being the guy who actually was abducted by aliens and trying to convince everyone else that it happened. “Okay, buddy. Have another.”
He’s so convincing, and everyone else is so taken by his charming personality and perfect manners and general joie de vivre, that at first it makes you question yourself. “Maybe I’m too hard on him after all!” Then you get him home, the switch is flipped, and he’s flopping around on the ground screaming at the top of his lungs because he accidentally got some yogurt on his pinky.
If you were to babysit my son, you’d probably think he was the greatest toddler of all time. You’d get him on his best behavior, in his best mood, and you’d wonder why I constantly bitch about him on my blog. And then Mommy and Daddy would walk through the door and, to quote one of his favorite movies, “good feeling gone!”
Look, I’m no psychologist. I don’t know the official behavioral/developmental reasons my kid acts like Shirley Temple when we’re gone and like Problem Child when we get back, but I’m pretty sure it’s either because he feels like when we’re not around he’s on vacation too, or it’s because he’s the devil.
His personality seems so fluid, so fungible, that it’s enough to make you wonder: Is he faking his good behavior or his bad behavior? Which version is the real him? Does he have a split personality? Is my child a sociopath? Probably not. Many parents have dealt with the frustration of a child that behaves better for other people than he does for them, so either we’re all raising a generation of psychopaths (definitely possible) or it’s just a phase most kids go through (probably more likely).
Either way, a Hannibal Lecter mask might be a good idea. Just in case the kid bites.
I live this virtually every single day. My daughter is an angel and a joy to be around at daycare (according to everyone there) but the moment we get home she turns into a demonic, possessed, hell spawn child.
That (the demonic part), of course, is slightly exaggerated but we’re never sure which toddler will be making her appearance each evening. Parenting version of Russian Roulette, I suppose….
Dude. Happens to me every day picking up my minion from daycare. I used to worry the daycare lady thought we were beating him mercilessly every night, and then it went on long enough that I stopped caring what she thought…
This happens with my 3 year old daughter all the time! But I got the last laugh when I drove cross country to see the hubby after his 9 month deployment. (Thanks Navy, NOT!)My mother very happily watched our daughter, then 2, and our two dogs for the 8 days I was gone. I called every day to check in and the first two were the same as always: “Everything is fine. She’s behaving, the dogs are being good. No problems.” Then, day 3: “Oh My GOD! Your daughter….!! And your dogs…!!!” I honestly don’t remember what she said happened but I remember the pure joy I felt hearing her rant on and on. That’s right mom, she’s not the angel you thought! And I’m not imagining or overreacting about her behavior! Muhahaha!
My boys are older but still do this to an extent. I think there is something about being away from the familiar that impacts them.
I pity your sorry existence and pity my own too, because they sound more or less identical. Such two-faced little scoundrels. The only thing you might be missing out on, is having two kids of a similar age – so when one of them surprises you by NOT freaking out for a moment, you can be pretty sure the other one makes up for it.
I wonder if there is some biological reason? I mean, what purpose does it serve? Does it provide the kids with a necessary way to release their angst? Does it test the parents, so that weak ones break and get discarded? I can’t see the point! Surely there must be a point beyond them just being tired and stroppy?
Wait, so sometimes it’s NOT a 15-minute struggle to get his shoes on?
Actually, you’re right. I was just taking some creative license. Trying to put anything on the kid’s feet is my Vietnam.
I came across Tashan Win while browsing online, and it caught my attention because many people were talking about it. I tried it out of curiosity, and the overall experience felt smooth in the beginning. There are different features available, so it takes some time to understand everything properly. I am still new to it, but so far it looks decent if used carefully and without rushing.
Nicee blo here! Alsoo your site lowds up fast!
Whatt webb host arre yyou using? Cann I geet your affiliate link too
youur host? I wish myy sitye loaed upp ass fast aas yurs loll ofvd9wuapt9kldoyc3se
magnificdent submit, vvery informative. I’m wondrring why thhe other specialiusts of tis sectfor do noot realize this.
Yoou shhould cointinue your writing. I amm confident, yoou hhave a hue readers’ base already!
ofvd9wuapt2vjsomlv9y
Thank forr finslly talking aboiut > Spliit Persoonality – Daad andd Buried desixxx.biz
The contrast between a toddler behaving like Shirley Temple for relatives and melting down over yogurt as soon as Mom and Dad return captures how children often reserve their strongest emotions for the people they trust most. That same gap between appearances and reality makes careful verification useful elsewhere, especially when a resource like download hytale for android explains why unofficial APK claims deserve scrutiny.
This was a useful read, especially the practical framing. It fits naturally beside related web resources like Eleph Tv Mod Apk.
This is very interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I have joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your great post. Also, I have shared your site in my social networks!
The contrast between a toddler behaving like “Christ reborn” for relatives and then collapsing over something as small as yogurt on his pinky captures how differently children can act with parents versus visitors. That same split-personality theme makes the ultimate favorite pokemon picker an amusing way to sort out which Pokemon belong on your ideal team, especially with its six-Pokemon builder and alternate-form options.
Yeah bookmaking this wasn’t a high risk conclusion great post! .
You are my intake, I own few blogs and occasionally run out from brand :). “He who controls the past commands the future. He who commands the future conquers the past.” by George Orwell.
Really great visual appeal on this website , I’d rate it 10 10.
Thank you for sharing superb informations. Your site is so cool. I’m impressed by the details that you’ve on this site. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for more articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found just the info I already searched all over the place and just couldn’t come across. What a perfect site.
Great work! This is the type of info that should be shared around the net. Shame on Google for not positioning this post higher! Come on over and visit my web site . Thanks =)
Some really nice and utilitarian information on this site, as well I conceive the style and design has wonderful features.
This was a useful read, especially the practical framing. It fits naturally beside related web resources like Quiet Bpd Test.
The concrete examples make this easier to apply. Readers comparing related resources may also find Lippenarten useful in this context.
Just a smiling visitant here to share the love (:, btw great style and design. “Better by far you should forget and smile than that you should remember and be sad.” by Christina Georgina Rossetti.
I am really impressed together with your writing abilities as well as with the layout for your blog. Is that this a paid theme or did you customize it your self? Anyway keep up the excellent high quality writing, it is uncommon to peer a nice weblog like this one these days..
Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! By the way, how could we communicate?
I like this weblog very much so much good information.
Great line up. We will be linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the good writing.
Very interesting subject, thanks for putting up. “Nothing is more wretched than the mind of a man conscious of guilt.” by Titus Maccius Plautus.
I have been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this blog. Thanks, I’ll try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your web site?
Very superb information can be found on blog. “Never violate the sacredness of your individual self-respect.” by Theodore Parker.
I have been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thank you, I’ll try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your site?
Hello my family member! I want to say that this article is awesome, great written and include approximately all important infos. I would like to see extra posts like this .
You can definitely see your enthusiasm within the work you write. The sector hopes for even more passionate writers such as you who are not afraid to mention how they believe. At all times go after your heart.
I really like your writing style, fantastic info , thanks for posting :D.
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! By the way, how can we communicate?
Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an really long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t show up. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyways, just wanted to say excellent blog!
I have not checked in here for some time because I thought it was getting boring, but the last several posts are good quality so I guess I will add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
Respect to post author, some wonderful information .
Very nice info and right to the point. I don’t know if this is truly the best place to ask but do you guys have any thoughts on where to get some professional writers? Thanks 🙂
You have remarked very interesting details! ps nice site. “High school is closer to the core of the American experience than anything else I can think of.” by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr..
I’ve recently started a website, the information you provide on this website has helped me greatly. Thanks for all of your time & work.
I intended to post you one very little word just to say thanks again relating to the striking tactics you’ve documented above. It was so open-handed of people like you to deliver publicly exactly what a number of people could have made available as an e book in making some profit for their own end, even more so seeing that you could have tried it in the event you decided. These basics additionally acted to be the fantastic way to be aware that many people have similar eagerness much like my personal own to grasp many more with regard to this matter. I am certain there are millions of more enjoyable times ahead for individuals who view your website.
Absolutely pent articles, thank you for information. “In the fight between you and the world, back the world.” by Frank Zappa.
Hey very nice site!! Man .. Excellent .. Amazing .. I will bookmark your website and take the feeds also…I’m happy to find numerous useful info here in the post, we need develop more strategies in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .
That title sounds kinda creepy but also oddly fitting for the whole vibe.
Wait, is that a real book or just a pretty title? “Split Personality” sounds way more intense than “Dad and Buried” suggests.
I was curious if you ever considered changing the structure of your blog? Its very well written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe you could a little more in the way of content so people could connect with it better. Youve got an awful lot of text for only having 1 or 2 pictures. Maybe you could space it out better?
The feeling when grandparents tell you how “good” they were is the worst. Always feels like a setup image to video.
Precisely what I was searching for, appreciate it for putting up.
the “you’re overreacting” part is the absolute worst. they have no clue what it’s like the second the babysitter leaves slice to meet you web game
The instant shift from angel to demon the second you walk through the door is exactly why I hate coming home. People think you’re crazy when you try to explain it after they’ve had a perfect weekend, but Cliff Rider unblocked game this post hits the nail on the head.
I think this website has some very good info for everyone :D.
I genuinely value your work, Great post.
Hi, Neat post. There’s an issue with your website in internet explorer, might check this?K IE nonetheless is the market leader and a huge component to other folks will pass over your fantastic writing due to this problem.
The Jekyll and Hyde routine is way too real, especially when the grandparents swear they were an angel all weekend. It makes you feel like you’re losing your mind motorsport trying to explain why they’re acting like a total lunatic the second you walk through the door.
I have read a few good stuff here. Certainly worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to create such a wonderful informative web site.
I used to be suggested this blog by way of my cousin. I’m no longer sure whether or not this publish is written by means of him as no one else understand such designated approximately my problem. You’re amazing! Thanks!
I was just searching for this information for some time. After six hours of continuous Googleing, at last I got it in your website. I wonder what is the lack of Google strategy that don’t rank this kind of informative web sites in top of the list. Usually the top sites are full of garbage.
Some really wonderful posts on this website, thank you for contribution. “The spirit is the true self.” by Marcus Tullius Cicero.
The Jekyll and Hyde thing is too real. It’s the worst when the relatives act like you’re overreacting while the kid’s acting like a lunatic guasha in richmond.
Only wanna remark that you have a very decent site, I like the style and design it really stands out.
I must express my admiration for your kindness giving support to those people that must have assistance with in this area. Your real commitment to getting the solution along turned out to be exceedingly helpful and have frequently helped others like me to realize their pursuits. Your new important report denotes a lot a person like me and further more to my mates. Warm regards; from everyone of us.
We are a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your site offered us with valuable info to work on. You have done a formidable job and our entire community will be grateful to you.
naturally like your web-site but you need to check the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very troublesome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll certainly come back again.
You nailed the Jekyll and Hyde switch between the weekend and getting home, it’s exactly why that online time calculator post feels so real.
I completely relate to the “angel” vs. “little lunatic” switch after a vacation. It’s the only time you really realize that split personality is real, so yeah, you just have to deal with hidden grimoire game.
Thankyou for helping out, great information.
Hei di sana, saya menjumpai website Anda lewat Google ketika mencari topik yang serupa, situs Anda tampil di bagian atas. Saya harus mengakui bahwa saya kagum seberapa baik penyusunannya. Saya sangat menyukai membaca ini dan saya pasti akan kembali untuk melihat konten lainnya. Terima kasih banyak!
It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d certainly donate to this fantastic blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will share this site with my Facebook group. Talk soon!
Today, while I was at work, my sister stole my apple ipad and tested to see if it can survive a twenty five foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now destroyed and she has 83 views. I know this is totally off topic but I had to share it with someone!
Regards for all your efforts that you have put in this. very interesting info .
Man, the “child-free fun” trap is real and you’ll be yelling “get those shoes on” before you’ve even had your first beer. It’s that classic Jekyll and Hyde switch where the angel turns into a lunatic the second you walk through the door. You can find a deeper dive on this behavior here online car crush game.
It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d definitely donate to this superb blog! I suppose for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about this blog with my Facebook group. Talk soon!
That Jekyll and Hyde switch is so real — my kid is a perfect angel for grandma and then loses his mind the second I walk through the door, like ultimate prompt generator clockwork.
It’s really a great and useful piece of information. I am glad that you shared this useful information with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.
Thanx for the effort, keep up the good work Great work, I am going to start a small Blog Engine course work using your site I hope you enjoy blogging with the popular BlogEngine.net.Thethoughts you express are really awesome. Hope you will right some more posts.
I would like to thnkx for the efforts you have put in writing this blog. I am hoping the same high-grade blog post from you in the upcoming as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings quickly. Your write up is a good example of it.