On Day 2 of sick toddlers, Daddy had to use the bathroom.

In order to distract them while Daddy took care of business, he turned on the TV and dialed it into Little Einsteins. Usually this is like crack for them and they will watch those four little music-playing smart kids until the cows come home.

Not today.

No, watching Daddy sit on the throne was much more interesting. So, in we all went to our little downstairs bathroom.

As I sat down, I felt the need to talk them through the proper sequence.

“First, we lower our pants. Next we sit down. Then we pull out our Sports Illustrated…”

They were fascinated. TheMonk circled around back to see if anything had made its way into the bowl. Feeling a little bit of stage fright, nothing had happened yet.

Meanwhile, Swee’Pea was finding this whole scenario highly amusing but intriguing at the same time. “What’s Daddy doing?” she asked.

“I’m using the Potty, Swee’Pea.” I replied.

“I use potty too.” she said.

“Oh. Okay, Swee’Pea. We’ll let you use the potty later. Okay?” I ask, nervously.

“Okay.” she replied, seeming satisfied with this response.

By this time I had done what I needed to do. TheMonk, still standing behind me, watched as I stood to wipe – his hand on the handle, ready to flush everything down.

“Wait for Daddy to finish, Monk.” I said watching his hand twitching in anticipation.

*Flush*

Okay, so he didn’t wait. I had to finish up, close the lid, raise my pants and then announce that we wash our hands after using the potty. I then reached over and flushed again – much to the glee of TheMonk who has clearly made this part of going to the Potty his favorite.

Finally done, we headed out the door. Everyone satisfied with what had gone down.

How come just when I get used to this parenting thing, they keep changing the rules?