I have discovered in the last couple of days (much to my disappointment) that I am not as patient as I was once - the toddler finally killed it off.

This is to be expected I hear you say, but I used to be known for my patience. It was about the only virtue I could lay claim too. As late as a couple of weeks ago the most common comment about me at work when discussing my strengths was that I am extremely patient and don’t let my frustration show. I think I may have to confess the truth upon my return in the new year.

I will admit the crying of Usurper gets to me at times - especially when you know if she was just quiet for 30 seconds she would be asleep.

I will also gladly admit that the constant whining of the toddler gets to me at times - when will she learn the world does not quite centre around her (only almost).

But what really got to me this week was trying to teach Little Miss how to use her Christmas present, actually one of a myriad of presents, a Smart Cycle.

Trying to get her to peddle forwards not back, steer, not press the buttons at random and how to move the joystick almost killed me. I had to resist the urge to kick her off it and complete the tasks myself!

Maybe it is because I have been a gamer since I got my first computer back in the 70’s - yes kiddies there were computers back then, and just so you know the games looked like crap but played much better.

Maybe it was because I had spent an evening putting it together and I wanted to see it used properly.

Maybe I am just a bad parent.

But I do know that now it is unplugged from the TV so it isn’t turned on. That fact doesn’t seem to bother her all that much and it has allowed me to keep what remains of my hair.

Now I am off to play Call of Duty 4 - and I will do it properly (and Wife I promise not to hurl the controller to the ground and swear in rage tonight!)

I think I may have some issues…….