So sweet . . . well, bittersweet anyway.

So, yesterday, Caden and I were in Target, having a great time, when all of a sudden, the world collapsed. At least, that's what I'm guessing happened because I don't know what else in the world would have caused the MASSIVE temper tantrum that Caden threw. Honestly, one minute he was happy as a clam, the next, complete meltdown. This NEVER happens with him. Usually, I can sense when a tantrum is coming and either prepare myself or try to stop it before it starts. I was, needless to say, completely caught off guard by this one. As calmly as I possibly could, I finished getting the 2 things that I needed to get, while "dragging" Caden around Target while he was screaming at the top of his lungs. I mean, this was a textbook tantrum, with Caden throwing himself on the floor screaming at me. Tantrums, to me, are something that just aren't tolerated, so I ignored everything that he did and said. I got plenty of understanding smiles, and plenty of glares. I didn't care. I just kept on ignoring.
So, we finished and got out to the car, where I explained to Caden that because of the way that he acted, he couldn't have his "Meow" (a little stuffed cat that he likes to cuddle when his blankies are in the laundry) or his cars. He needed to just sit quietly until we got to the grocery store and think about how he had acted in Target. We go off on our way and he just kept crying, but not screaming anymore.

Finally, he said (between sobs), "Mommy, I think I need something to help make me be better."

I said, "What do you think would help make you be better?"

He said, "Maybe my Meow or my Beddy to cuddle so I can calm down and be better."

I said, "Caden, you can't have your Meow right now because of the way that you acted. If you stay calm until we get to the grocery store, we can talk about you having your Meow."

He said, "I know Mommy, but I just need some help to be better."

Oh my goodness, that just absolutely melted my heart and of course I wanted to give in, but I held strong. It just made me realize that he actually noticed what he had done and how he had acted and that he needed to behave. So sweet. I love that boy so much. It's amazing how much they grow and learn and observe. Wow. I'm amazed.