Conversations
Alright I’ve got a big ol’ entry I need to make shortly for Ray and Barb’s visit 1.5 weeks ago, I just need to process the images… but the story below must be told, before I forget.
In the last few days, once on Melissa and I’s anniversary, and earlier today on the 9th, Ian and I had interesting conversations. We’ve talked before but you can tell he gets it more, wants to tell me more. Hard to explain the difference, but maybe you’ll see it by “hearing.”
Conversation 1:
Ian – [Sign language for more.]
Me – “You want more? More oatmeal?”
Ian – “Nooooooooo.” he says, pushing the bowl back lightly.
Me – “Well what do you want more of?”
Ian watches me say this, thoughtfully, and levels his finger at an open container of applesauce.
Me – “You want more applesauce?”
Ian nods enthusiastically, and smiles.
Conversation 2:
It should be noted that he excitedly pointed to the door to the garage and said “BIKE” about 10 times…
And it was clear as bell… unmistakably “BIKE.” So I strap him into the bike to go for a ride, but he cries as I try to put a helmet on his head.
Me – “You can’t ride a bike without a helmet Ian. Dada has his helmet on.”
(We try this several times, he and I. We’re at a stalemate.)
Me – “Well, I am not taking you for a ride without a helmet on, Ian. Are you sure? Alright well… do you want to go back inside?”
Ian – “Noooooooooooooo.”
Me – “Ok, well, how about a ride in the wagon… the one where I pull it.” I point in the general direction of our wagon, obscured by Melissa’s car.
Ian nods and smiles, lifting his arms for a pick-up; my initial sadness that he doesn’t want to ride a bike with his dad is replaced by pride.
The kid is getting smarter. So different to be able to “talk” like this. I know people say he will drive me nuts asking questions eventually, but to be able to reason with him, even a little… can you put a price on that?
This morning —
Conversation 3:
Melissa tries to put Ian’s shoes on.
Ian – “Nooooooooooo.”
Melissa – “Do you want to go play with your friends at daycare?”
Ian is pensive for a moment, then nods slowly.