Fingerpaint

In retrospect, I could have done things differently.

After being stuck inside for two days due to rain, Sam and I are starting to get on each other's nerves. I thought today would be a great day to get out some new things to play with - and then I saw the fingerpaint. I was so excited! Sam loves getting messy and he loves coloring with markers. Why wouldn't we have a beautiful afternoon creating masterpieces together?

Sam followed me around as I gathered the paint and paper. He was whining and hanging on me (blast this rain!) but I ignored him. I felt smug as I led him into the bathroom to paint. Aren't I the smartest mom in the world, painting in the most washable room in the house? We sat down, facing each other, and I placed a piece of paper between us. I put a few drops of each color on the paper and waited for the magic to begin.

Sam stared at the paper, and then raised his head to give me the most disgusted look I've ever seen him make. I clapped and smiled and pointed at the paint. I swear he rolled his eyes. I finally took his wrist and, with him pulling back as hard as he could, I smooshed his hand into the paint.

His nose wrinkled so hard it almost touched his forehead. He yanked his arm away from me and furiously wiped his hand on the front of his (Ralph Lauren) shirt. I thought he just didn't understand and tried again. Now both his hands were covered with paint and he was angry. He struggled to stand up (using his hands on the floor and walls) and tried to battle his way out of the room (pounding the door with his palms). I finally wrestled him out of his clothes and got him cleaned up (one washcloth, one hand towel, and my right sleeve were lost in the fight).

He is now in the living room, wearing only a diaper and carrying the red bottle of paint.

I think it's best that we spend a little time apart.