One of those nights (Anna)

Toddlers' emotions are intense. Whoa. We went through about 10 complete meltdowns tonight (and only 5 of them were mine ;). She was furious! I was desperate! Every time we thought we had got though it, another one emerged about two minutes later. By the end of it I think we were both exhausted.

And then eventually it was like all the crying had been spent, and she cuddled up in my arms, all snuggly and lovey-dovey and I stroked her hair and sung to her. Then I tucked her into bed (after giving her her nightly "Mummy" kiss - a ritual while Caroline is away and can't do it herself), along with the full entourage of every animal she owns, and she fell asleep clutching my finger (my "finkie" - a cross between a pinky and a finger) murmuring "I love you, Mumma."

I think she just needed a really good cry in her Mumma's arms.

I wonder, which feeling represents parenthood more? Those moments when I could have happily thrown her out the window, or the wonderful softness of her hair and the profound intimacy as she snuggled up to me later? Perhaps that is the epitome of parenting - it is both, usually at the same time.