Not always easy

We had a hard day today. I got really upset with you when you refused to clean up your toys at the cafe. I'm sorry I didn't take a deep breath and figure out a creative and effective way to help you do something you didn't want to do. Instead I slapped your bottom, and I got mad when you laughed, and I made you cry when I told you we were going home and going to bed. I should have been better. I should have been calmer. I should have been more understanding, patient, kind, loving... I was tired and so were you. Tomorrow will be better, I promise.