My Son's Leash Arrived Today
As you can tell by my title the struggle is real over here. I have all of these topics jotted down to write about, but have been feeling like I just can't wrap my head around them. Then, Abram's leash arrived and it hit me, this is my life right now. So here I am to try and lift the stigma of putting your kid on a leash; something I swore I would never do.
I have always told Matt that I think Abram is our dog, Lucky, reincarnated. Lucky was funny, smart, a people person, adventurous, and spun around like crazy. Lucky also bolted a lot. In fact, the last time he did it he was hit by a car and killed, right before I got pregnant with Abram. I am not saying my son is a dog, but with the leash I think the transition is complete ;).
Seriously though, Abram is an extremely smart little boy with a lot of energy. Unfortunately, smart for a 2.5 year old means exploring everything and testing his limits. He is also very stubborn (he obviously gets that from his dad's side). He hates riding in the cart unless it looks like a car, and usually walks next to me. Occasionally, he will get a spurt of energy and take off running. This just started with the move and I know it's a phase, but it is a dangerous one.
The first time it happened I was in a huge store with both kids and the item I was trying to get off the shelf was stuck. In the time it took for me to get the item he was gone. I ran through the store, pushing Julip in the cart, with my heart racing. I was screaming his name, but he was no where to be found. Finally, at the opposite end of the store a group of women had him surrounded. I almost cried with gratitude for these women as I laughed it off on the outside and thanked them. I started thinking about the leash that evening, but wrote it off as a one-time thing.
Then another series of bolts happened, leaving Matt chasing him across the store. One time he almost ran out of the automatic doors. He thinks it's a game of chase and we try not to "chase" him, but cannot let him out of our sight. People tell me to explain to him why he can't run. Why didn't I think of that!? Have you ever tried explaining ANYTHING to a 2 year old? So this week I gave in and ordered the leash with the best reviews.
Now, here I sit trying to get up the courage to use it in public. I know how it will look, but in my heart I just want him to be able to explore while knowing he is safe. Even if it means being "that" parent for a couple months.
xo,
Nikki