Splish splash, I have rules for my bath.

Elena enjoys a bath. She enjoys a bath as long as she doesn't have to have her hair washed, as long as someone bathes with her, as long as Daddy doesn't rinse her hair and as long as nobody combs her hair after. Terrible TWOS? Whatever. This three (and a half) age can be brutal, baby.

And it doesn't end with bath time. No sir. We have hissy fits at dinner (unless the meal happens to be macaroni and cheese), tantrums for gum, lipstick (chapstick), candy and whatever the day's desires may be. Bedtime also remains a challenge with Elena's 'princess bed' next to ours getting plenty of use. She makes whining an art form and peeing her pants a new habit (hello, regression). She is downright exhausting and at the end of the day, Mommy misses wine.

But she remains one of the sweetest children alive, full of kisses and efforts to make us happy and proud. Her preschool teacher (Ms. Debbie) told us that she is one of the most compassionate children she's come across and that it reflects how we are at home. Elena really does have a very big heart and expresses her concern for others all the time, making sure that everyone around her is happy. Though we are challenged by her every day, we are also rewarded with cuddles and hugs and 'funny as hell' things that come out of her mouth.

As I write this, she just pounded out of her room shouting that, "I took off all my clothes for the bath, Mommy and I DIDN'T argue!" Her announcement was followed by a big open-armed hug, a pause for congratulations and a look (similar to this photo) of pure delight in her accomplishment.

Three and a half ain't so bad.