Caleb is in "that stage"

Caleb is a part of the groupie otherwise known as "terrible twos." This stage really doesn't start at two, like some believe, but it is actually at 2 1/2 or 3 depending on the child. Caleb has been a bit on the defiant side, loves to scream or make other obnoxious unruly noises, and just a bit on the disrespectful and disobedient side. I am learning a great deal of patience during this time, and trying to figure out what works with Caleb. I am a born yeller. It is not my best quality, but I have that tendency. Really, it seems there is a link to yelling and feeling a release~kind of therapeutic in a way. OK, I know it is not good, and it is something I am aiming to overcome. It has helped to take a deep breath just before I discipline or redirect the kids.
Some of the things Caleb does, or says, is really rather funny. I would never intentionally laugh out loud when he does them, though. I am a bit fuzzy on some of the things he says while I type this, but I will have to write them down and do an update on here. Here is some of the things he says:
You're upnoxious
I am the parent
I'm really frustrated!
He is really trying to open his wings of independence right now, too. He likes to "be a mini parent" to Nathaniel. He likes to put on his (fill in the blank~shirt, socks, jeans, shoes) himself, now.
Really, though, Caleb is a great kiddo...it is just a trying time in his life. I just need to remember that his is ONLY 2. He will be 3 on May 25th. :)
On a different note, Caleb has an amazing memory! He knows when we are in St. Paul just by looking around. He remembers things we say weeks/months ago! He really amazes us with his memory capacity!