Sour Patch Mornings: Life with a Moody Toddler

When raising a tiny human feels like being in a full-blown emotional relationship.

“Mom, I’m mad at you!”
“Why, MJ?”
“Because you didn’t let me feed the dogs!”
“You were asleep… if you were awake, why didn’t you come help?”
“Don’t tell me stories!”

That was how our Friday started. Welcome to life with a toddler who feels everything deeply.

Some days it feels like I’m in a miniature relationship—one filled with mood swings, negotiations, dramatic exits, and surprise hugs. MJ is cranky, then needy, then irritated… and then somehow the most loving kid in the world. He’s my own little Sour Patch Kid. 🍬

But underneath the whiplash is a lesson: he’s not trying to give me a hard time—he’s having a hard time. He’s 4. And his emotions are loud, raw, and real.

Daily, I’m learning how to respond with patience, not power. Grace, not guilt. And it’s not easy. But this boy… he’s worth every deep breath and every reset. 💛

Motherhood isn’t always magical—but it is meaningful. Especially on mornings like this.

Can you relate? Leave a comment or share your own "Sour Patch" moment with me below ⬇️