You and your brother and sisters stayed overnight after a fun day at the beach. Your parents were at home.  When it was time for bed, I checked in on you.  You were in the lower bunk bed, propped up with two pillows and a variety of other pillows to soften the blow should you fall out.  Your arms were behind your head and despite the late hour, you were mellow and happy.

Hoping to motivate you to stay in bed all night, I said “Jack if you’re a good boy and stay in bed alllllllll-night, Papa will let you pick out two donuts when we go to Congdon’s tomorrow.

A wide grin crossed your face as you said:

Just drop me off.

In the morning, I said “Who wants to come with me to get donuts at Congdon’s?”
One lone voice cried out immediately – with great enthusiasm:

“I will!!!!” – you shouted, the only one interested in coming along.  I could tell by your face you hadn’t forgotten the promise – it was as if you were saying “hey, you promised me two donuts dude and believe me I am going to get my two donuts!”

“Hooray,” I said as we climbed into the Youk for our drive along the ocean and up to the famous place on route 1 that makes the world’s yummiest donuts. “We’re going to have fun together!”

As we rounded the bend, I pointed out the rocks, waves and lighthouse, which you kindly acknowledged.  But you had your own agenda and were far more intent on expressing yourself on a wide variety of pressing topics.  Here are a few entertaining excerpts from our little escapade:

I can’t see you cause the sun is in my eye.

Are we going to Old McDonald’s?  Is it close to the beach?

I miss my Mommy.  That’s my problem.

Can I hold the donuts? Just put them on the bench right there (the seat next to your car seat).

(as you were holding them)  They smell good in there!

Papa, do we have to wake up early to see the fireworks?

You are such a little master chatter-box now, expressing every thought with endless spontaneity.  It’s so fun being around you – we never know what will come out next!