Out of the Mouths of Babes – Sentimental Sunday No. 15

After we moved to Salem, I began working part time for Family Building Blocks – a child abuse prevention organization and educational program. I had been out of the work force for a few years, and decided I should purchase some new clothes. (Any excuse to go shopping… like I really needed an excuse!)

Richard and J.J. drove me to work in the mornings. On this particular morning I was wearing one of my new outfits. J.J. was 3 years old at the time. I asked Richard and J.J. if I looked nice. Richard said that I did. But, J.J. didn’t say anything. I said, “J.J., does Mommy look pretty – do I look sexy?” He replied, “You not sexy! You a Mommy!”
Around this same time we were watching the movie “Selena”, starring Jennifer Lopez. J.J. was dancing around the living room in time to the music. I asked him if he liked the music. He said yes. I said it’s the music of your people – it’s Tejano music – Mexican music. He stopped dancing and got a very serious look on his face. I said, “Honey, you’re Mexican.” He replied, “No, I not.” I again told him that he was, to which he stomped his foot and exclaimed, “I not a Mexican! I a boy!” Too cute.
To a 3 year old Mommy’s and Boy’s could only be Mommy’s and Boy’s and no additional adjectives were permissible. I miss those adorable little quips from my little man – who has grown up all too quickly!