Twit the Wit

The kids seem quite different these last few weeks. It's as if they have grown up a lot more, with the year drawing to a close, and are straddling between their actual age and the age they will turn in a few months' time. With that especially, comes interesting conversation. Some startle me, as we traverse new ground; some tickle me, with the child-like innocence with which it was spoken; some simply make me burst out laughing.

Every once in a while, kids being kids, will amuse parents with these moments which make them feel that parenting is so worthwhile. Never mind that they had to endure grueling days and nights of routine and nonsense where they doubt the identity of these angels of theirs. So when the last few weeks have been dotted with such surprises, imagine the difference it made for me.

Putting these thanksgivings here as good reminders for years later, and a little bit of sunshine for the occasional cloudier days.

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Rou: I am now a girl.

Me: Mei, you've always been a girl, and will always be a girl.

Gabe: That's right mei mei. You will never be a boy. I am a boy and will always be a boy.

(Couldn't help but think of the surgical possibilities available in this day and age while replying the daughter.)

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Lady at restaurant was making arrangements for derod's birthday cake, and asked if we would like the traditional "Happy Birthday" song to be played over the sound system. Stifling fits of laughter, my parents and I gave the go-ahead.

Gabe: What, mummy? What's happening?

Me: *whispering in his ear* The restaurant is going to play the happy birthday song when they bring the cake out for papa. We have to sing together loudly for papa ok?

Gabe: *responses in whisper* OK. Why are you speaking quietly in my ear?

Me: *whispers* Because it's a surprise and we don't want papa to hear us.

Gabe: *whispers* ohhh... ok.

Derod: *looking at our sheepish exchange* What are you two talking about?

Gabe: *speaking loudly, waving his hands and shaking his head* Nothing!! Nothing!! We didn't say anything. We didn't say anything.

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At the dinner table one evening, while munching on his food,

Gabe: Papa, I'm going out tomorrow.

Derod and I glanced at each other. We had been told by our 4 year old son of his plans for the next day. Turns out he was only telling his father the plans I had told him about, but that informative voice, coupled with the tone of finality was just too funny. Well, at least we know what to expect 12 years from now.