We have just got back from a stay in California - a rare chance to spend time with DGS, whose third birthday was the day we left. (We celebrated it the day before, another flight date wasn't possible for various reasons).
Whilst we were there I was suffering from a tummy upset most of the time.
Then, once, while we were getting things ready to go for a swim, littl'un let out one of those screeches like they do, because he couldn't reach one of his swimming toys over the back of some stuff on the balcony. I was standing behind him and before I could stop myself, I slapped him.
I felt so awful - it was a reflex and I don't know what got into me. The usual policy when he screamed like that was just to ignore it. I don't know if my DiL saw it. She never mentioned it. It would be a bit late now to say anything.
It brings tears to my eyes when I remember it. I don't think I ever did that with one of my own DC.
Are we less patient when we get older? How could I have stopped myself?
After the event, however, DGS was fine with me, and enjoyed cuddles and stories just as much, if not more. When we were playing together, he said something like "I am noisy" - I answered that all boys are noisy. Will he forget it? Will he mention it to his Mum?
I'm sure if I had been fitter, I would have had better control over myself. I am now enjoying my first meal for two weeks - the tummy trouble has only just died down.
