Say hello to temper tantrums

I think that it's safe to say that we have entered the world of toddler temper tantrums. The other day (Friday, if I recall correctly), Caitlin had her first full blown fit. We refused to let Caitlin have her coveted Oreo cookie at 7:45 pm. It is a house rule--no sweets after 7 pm. Although Caitlin probably thought that this rule was unconstitutional, she was quickly vetoed. Ben & I stood our ground, refusing to give her the chocolate goody and watched as our little girl went from princess to demon in about 10 seconds flat! Fists clench, eyebrows creased and the screaming began. Let me just say that Caitlin has perfected the "I'm mad at you" scream--complete with it's ear piercing pitch. We tried to appease our child at no avail as she continued her tantrum. Finding it slightly amusing, Ben grabbed the video camera and started to document "The First Tantrum" and test of our parenting skills. Caitlin could not be calmed, held or bribed (moment of parental weakness) and finally put herself in a corner of the kitchen and had herself a good cry. After about 5 minutes, the fit was over as suddenly as it came on--like the aftermath of a tornado. She must've tried herself out because she came over to Momma wanting to be picked up and cuddled. We cuddled for a few minutes and then she was out like a light--at an early 8:30 pm. Ben & I were so proud of ourselves for riding out the storm and not giving in. Score one for the parents--we have many more tests to come!