On the Potty

On Monday morning, Rebecca dragged her injured self to witness Chrissee's first ever parade. While she was out, James faced the daunting milestone of running out of diapers. It had been previously agreed that this is the summer to potty train and no more diapers would be purchased for Samuel (because they've become a crutch of sorts for everyone.) The major challenge in our previous attempts to help Samuel was actually getting him to sit on it. So, James - who can be decidedly inventive when called upon to do so - decided to inspire him with "Dora the Explorer with Stars on it!!" (That would be Season 3 for those of you who don't follow kiddie cartoons.) James, inspired by brilliance, set the laptop on a bathroom drawer and planted Samuel in front of it.

We know. It's unconventional... and probably not the best method for long term potty exploits. But, for now, it's working. Samuel willing sits on the toilet several times a day and has, since yesterday, successfully USED it three times. WOOHOO. The super bonus is that his bed has stayed dry during naps and overnight AND we think that Uncle Quinn has tipped us off to the transitional motivator -- Ring Pops! (His dentist will be thrilled!)

Welcome to the "whatever it takes" method of parenting.
Samuel, snuggled in Rebecca's robe (because going naked with AC can get cold), sits on the potty while watching Dora and calling out, "Wiper no 'wiping!"

Afternoon naps in Amme's bed and waking up all dry! Of course, this is only the fourth day, but there's no turning back now.