Unwanted Celebration

Helping Hamlet ditch the diapers has been a family affair. Early in the process we enlisted the help of Robby. Where Timmy may push back against our demands, he will do just about anything to impress his big brother. With Robby's encouragement, Timmy has been successful.

Part of our routine involves cheering whenever somebody uses the toilet. It began by just cheering Timmy, but somehow we have expanded to include everybody in the house. (Even the cats are met by an enthusiastic reception whenever they are done using the litterbox.) Timmy is the head cheerleader, happily applauding everybody when they are in the bathroom. 

In an attempt to kill some time while Robby was at the gym, we took Timmy to Chick-fil-A to play on their playground. After an hour of running and climbing with new buddies, I encouraged him to visit the bathroom before we left. He obliged without complaint and successfully "made bubbles in the potty." (On a side note, I am amazed at the phrases that have become common vernacular while raising boys!)

As we were washing his hands another customer entered the bathroom and closed the stall door. I was trying to encourage Timmy to leave but he was deeply engrossed in making sure his hands were clean. As it turns out, the lure of an automatic sink and soap dispenser proved too powerful to abandon. 

Just as I managed to pull his hands away from faucet we heard a familiar splash coming from behind the closed stall door.  Without hesitation, Timmy erupted into a thunderous round of applause.  Cheering enthusiastically, he exclaimed, "Yippe! Lady went poo-poo in the potty" all while stomping his feet and clapping his hands. The celebration echoed throughout the bathroom.

Not knowing if I should join him or apologize, I opted to take his hand and head towards the car. I figured that slipping away as quietly as possible would be the best approach for everybody involved.