4-year-old Rachel to her daddy as he watches her dance around our living room before bedtime: Please don’t smile. You can be happy, but try not to smile because it reminds me of boys and girls and kissing, and that’s disgusting.
This is the same child who told me that Peter from Heidi
Geez. Where did she get all this boyfriend mumbo jumbo from? All I can come up with is that two of her babysitters have boyfriends they occasionally mention.
“Nope,” I said. “Only Daddy.”
“Well, I have six boyfriends.”
Oh dear.
Madeline, who is 6, is oblivious to boys except that she enjoys racing them across the soccer field, but Rachel is drawn to the idea of courtship (women and men dancing around in elaborate ballrooms – that sort of thing) and and strong men apparently. She also started trying on my shoes as soon as she was mobile and prefers wearing dresses (and tiaras and jewelry). She was born with a girly, glam gene, but at least she thinks kisses are disgusting, although later she clarified it was only wet kisses that were really gross.
My husband and I really aren’t looking forward to the dating years with three girls (maybe four?) under one roof. I’m going to start praying for the graces NOW.
So sweet! I can totally understand why she’s got you sweating.
Just yesterday I was having the following conversation with Sarah (9):
“Mommy, can [my invisible friend] Jake come for dinner tonight?”
“Sure, dear. Always room for one more.”
“And then he’ll sleep over IN MY ROOM.” (Glances up, wide-eyed.)
“Sorry, he’ll have to go home after dinner. Boys don’t sleep in girls’ rooms.”
“Unless they’re married, right?”
“Right.”
“Mommy? Jake and I are getting married tomorrow.”
*sigh*
Oh Kate, you and I should pray together. My second daughter has just turned 9 and we live in fear of her teenaged years. Not angst. No, no, *fashion*. Angst is so cheap and quiet! They buy ugly clothes at thrift stores (don’t they?). But the fashioniastas with their charming giggles and sidelong glances….ack! I think I’m having a panic attack as we speak, as a matter of fact.
Hugs and prayers to you, my dear :)
Is there something I should know, Kate?
I’m lucky to have my teenage girls 12 years apart!
Two other babysitters (my new one from this summer – recommended by your daughter – and one who came occasionally during the academic year). :-) By the way, I’ve meant to tell you what a lovely, young woman you raised. We so enjoyed getting to know her and were bummed she had such a busy summer schedule (but we were happy for her!).
Thanks for connecting us!
Blessings.