We're trying to raise The Girl to be a strong and independent woman, which, given her lineage, is a bit like pushing an open door. But she's four, and sometimes she has a little trouble finding the sweet spot between 'registering an objection' and 'being an insufferable diva.'
Last week, towards the end of an extended tug-of-war between TG and The Wife:
TW (exasperated): TG, you're being mean and bratty.
TG: I'm not mean! (storms off, downstairs)
(a few minutes later, overheard from upstairs)
TG (voice climbing higher with every word): ...and I said no and she said we have to and I said That's (stomp) Not (stomp) Fair! (stomp) and she called me mean and bratty!
The Boy (earnestly and sweetly): Well, Sweetie, sometimes you are a little mean and bratty.
(pause)
TG: Well, I'm not usually...
