Sometimes Obedience Feels Like This

Since Tobin has turned three it's like he thinks he can just do whatever he wants.  He pushes our buttons and fights back and is contrary and impish.

A few days ago I opened the door to our minivan and said, "Get in your car seat, Tobs."  And he looked right back at me and said, "No!" with a huge grin on his face.

"Toby, we need to go.  Get in your seat, now."

"No.  I not do it."

I sighed and lifted him up.  First he made his body stiff as a board and then he "went boneless" so that I almost dropped him.  But I prevailed and got him in to the car seat.

As I was strapping Toby in I said, "Toby, it makes Mommy upset when you fight me.  You need to listen and obey so that we will like doing things with you and for you.  When you listen and obey we can all be happy.  Yes, Mom?"

Toby had a pouty look on his face but he responded, "Yes, Mom." in a sad, pitiful voice.

After I climbed into my seat Geary and I looked at each other and shook our heads. "Is it because he's three?" Geary asked.  I shrugged.  And then trying to work up some enthusiasm for our trip I called to the back seat,  "Toby, are you three now?"

He was still pouting and with his little lip jutted out, he said, "No.  I'm happy."