I haven’t posted any commentary on the potty training saga, mostly because I think I learned the lessons I needed to learn, and Bethel just needed time. But it’s time for an update.
About a month ago, I came to the conclusion that we’d be done with diapers, and I’d just try to anticipate the potty need best as I could. The trouble was, Bethel (who turns three this month) didn’t know how not to hold it, so she went only when her bladder was about to explode. That point was hard to predict. I never had the sense that she was resisting rebelliously, but it was clear she was discouraged, and I was trying to address that by praying with her and talking about how God helps us to do right.
One day she figured it out, and from that point she would go if I put her on the potty, but she still had no understanding of knowing what having to go felt like. If I forgot to remind her, we’d have an accident. And there was no success for bowel movements whatsoever.
Our girls got a nasty GI virus that gave them diarrhea– while we were driving to Las Vegas. So although I could have put Bethel in a Pull-up, we decided not to. As it happened, we were in a restaurant when the urge hit, and I was able to rush Bethel to the potty in time for success, and even though we had some traumatic accidents, we had more successes stemming from that single success.
She’s still absent minded and must be reminded, but she’s beginning to understand herself a little bit and is getting better. She’s not totally successful every day, but I’d say she’s pretty close. It’s time for a potty training party.
And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
I told that verse to Bethel, but it was really for me. This time around (and it might not be this way the next time), I was learning about denying myself, being faithful, and not being weary. And now… desire accomplished is sweet to the soul. 🙂
Addy says
Since we’ve chatted about the potty-training thing, I just wanted to let you know that my daughter is finally trained–shortly after her 4th birthday. There has been great rejoicing going on in this house for the last 2 weeks!
Michelle says
I’m so glad, Addy! I wondered how things were going for you. Praise the Lord for growth, and I know you were stretched as much as your daughter. 🙂