From Innocence to Independence

I needed a quick little reminder of the girls' sweetness and adorable innocence. Tonight has been a bit trying and the girls' have both been pushing the limits. Kenzie was sent to bed early after she refused to eat her veggies at dinner and Syd threw a couple tantrums and spent lots of time in time out. We had never tried sending either of the girls to bed early, but it seemed to work well for Kenzie...she hated it. We're also having issues with Kenz telling the truth. She will lie even when things are completely obvious. Jon was working downstairs and I told the girls not to go down there and bother him. Next thing I know, I hear them walking down the stairs. I ask, "Are you guys going downstairs?" And Kenz instantly replies, "No." When we discipline her, she gets a little smirk on her face, like she thinks it's funny. It's absolutely frustrating!
Syd is going through a stage where she yells at me or Jon when she doesn't get her way or get to do something on her own. She has a tiny tantrum no matter where we are or how small the issue.
On the other hand, they will sometimes knock you off your feet with their cute sayings or when they say, "I love you mommy" without you saying it first. Today, Syd saw an orange swimsuit I bought for her last weekend and she asked if it was for her. When I told her it is, she said, "Thank you so much, mommy, since you know orange is my favorite color, oh, thank you, mommy"! Of course, if it wasn't for the bad times, then the good times would not be as sweet. I think?!! Or at least that's what I tell myself when I reflect on the bad times!