Out of the Mouths of Babes

Cody, speaking earnestly to Cordelia before bed: Baby sister, sometimes I just have to be stern with you. And I have to use my stern voice. I still love you. But the problem is, you are still a baby, actually. And you still cry and have tantrums and scream. And so I have to be stern with you. Someday soon, you will be a big person like me and you will not be a baby anymore. And then, when you stop having those tantrums, I will not have to be stern with you anymore, baby sister. Do you understand me?

Cordelia, nodding her head vigorously and grinning toothily: O-kay! Buh-boo! O-kay!

Cody, telling me about his day at preschool: Well, I just enjoyed playing by myself, actually. Well, for a little while I played with Bailey. She can tie huge knots.

Me: She can?

CJP: Yes. She is excellent at knots. I do not know how to do knots, actually.

Me: How old is she?

Cody: I don't know. Probably five. She's a big person. She is tall like me. Logan is not a big person.

SLL: Did you play with someone named Logan today? How old is Logan?

Cody: Well, he is probably one, actually. He is not big like me.

Me: Well, they don't let one-year-olds go to preschool. Do you think he might also be three?

CJP: Probably. He could be three, actually. But he is just a child, Shannon.

Cody, on getting ready for bed: Actually, I am going to come lie down in Cordelia's room while you do prayers, Mom. I might decide to feel my feelings right there. That way I can get my feelings out tonight, and I will not be so upset when I go to preschool tomorrow. Maybe I will not be so anxious.

SLL: [sound of cracking heart]