So, a few days ago I fairly lost my temper over something. (Surprise – I’m human! Shocked? Jealous?)
But within a few minutes Tia pointed out how I was being unfair, and I snapped out of it and apologized. I then apologized to the kids. In reply, Nem-nem again manages sweet and sour, (and plaintive, earnest, and emphatic), in her characteristic somewhat staggering speech.
Me: [Kids], I shouldn’t have spoken that way to mom. It was mean. I’m sorry.
Nem: Yeah, and I did say to you stop!
Me: Yes, and I should have listened to you.
Nem: Yeah, and you’re too heavy; I couldn’t put you in time-out!
Suddenly picturing this tiny 2-year old girl of mine hoisting me up, carrying me to a room, and informing me I was in time-out, I could only laugh. The kids realized it was funny, too.
But it’s also incredibly endearing.
(And sobering.)