My youngest grandson who is
three has discovered the power of that word. You know the one. The one we cherish
because it means they’re curious about the world around them and also dread
because sometimes we just don’t have the answers.
“Look, there’s a big
black slug.”
“Why?”
“How do you mean?”
“Why is it a slug?”
“Er, because it’s not a
rabbit?” That was a pathetic answer from a grandmother who should know better.
He didn’t find it funny.
“No, you can’t go outside and
play with your bubbles.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s cold.”
“Why?”
“Because… Oh go on then. But
put your coat on.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s cold.”
“Why?”
As well as questioning
everything, he is also very perceptive. The other day when we were out with
Dusty, he said to me, “You miss Indy don’t you?” I do. Every day. I’ve never
said so to him, but he knows anyway. I suspect because he misses him too.
And on Tuesday, he made my
day. He came into the kitchen and just said, “I love you.” Then he gave me a
big hug. That made me cry – it also made me smile. Lots.
Indy and Tilly would have
been fourteen today. I still ache for them, but every day Dusty reminds me of
things they and Sweep used to do, even if it’s a case of saying, “Indy would
never have done that!” (Running through mud). Or, “That’s such a Sweep thing to do!” (Always wanting to carry something). Or, “That look in
his eye is exactly like Tilly!” (When he's planning his next move). He’s brought back so many happy memories – more
than I would have thought possible and it is lovely to remember the good times
and smile.
"Why" does show the amazing curiosity of kids, doesn't it? That, or they're just trying to prolong the converstion into infinity. I have a very scientific grandson who starts every question with "Granny, did you know...?" My answer is anvariably "no". And then he tells me. At l-e-n-g-t-h. And I'm none the wiser at the end. When he was about seven, he could sing the entire periodic table....
ReplyDeleteIt is a wonderful feeling when we start to learn from (or be baffled by the knowledge of) our grandchildren, Frances x
ReplyDeleteOur gift-granddaughter has reached the same stage. Last time she visited I told her she could have 39 Whys. 'Why?' she said. '38,' I said.
ReplyDeleteHa ha, Lynne - I'm going to have to try that x
DeleteWe'd be geniuses if we could answer all their 'whys'!
ReplyDeleteWe certainly would Sally x
DeleteI still have this stage to come, Teresa. I better start making a list to study...:D
ReplyDeleteGood luck, Carol :-) x
DeleteHe sounds so cue and I'm looking forward to this stage! My wee granddaughter will be two this month - already.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe it, Rosemary - almost two! Oh the time goes much too fast doesn't it c
DeleteOops, replied before I'd finished and now I can't remember what else I was going to say, but I am amazed that almost two years have passed, Rosemary x
DeleteThat should have been 'cute' of course! I can't believe the passage of time either!
DeleteI read it as cute, Rosemary :-) Didn't even notice the missing T x
DeleteI love your 'why' conversations with your grandson, Teresa. And I especially loved the way he came in and told you he loved you - what a beautiful, magical moment. I hope it happens to me if I ever have grandchildren.
ReplyDeleteAnd I have a lump in my throat reading about your losses, but also a big smile to know how much joy Dusty has brought into your life. xxx
I'm sure it will, Joanna.
DeleteI shouldn't have tried to write a giggle blog yesterday, but I've been flooded with happy memories of my lovely dogs recently and they really have made me smile x
My granddaughter is three too so I know all about the 'why' word!
ReplyDeleteI've a three year old granddaughter too, Wendy. It's a lovely age isn't it, but I seem to say that with all of them, whatever age they are. They're just lovely :-) x
DeleteYes, I think it's my favourite age - although my eldest grandson is nearly 10 and that's lovely too.
DeleteSnap Wendy - my eldest grandson is nine too - hardly seems five minutes since he was asking me why, now I'm learning so much from him :-) x
DeleteA lovely post, Teresa. It brought a lump to my throat. What a very perceptive young man you have in that little grandson. Rxx
ReplyDeleteChildren amaze me with just how much they can empathise, Rena - and also with how much they know x
DeleteWhat a lovely post Teresa and I'm so glad Dusty is bringing so much joy into your life and reminding you of the happy times. We never stop missing those pets that have gone though do we.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great conversation - definitely an exhausting time when they go through the Why Phase!! And then they say - 'I love you.....' :o) xx
He almost leapt into a big creek with steep sides this morning, Sue - we recalled how Indy and Tilly kept well away but how Oakley and Sweep would take a flying leap in, then swim around until they found somewhere safe to climb out (while I fretted and worried!). Happy times x
DeleteWhy Teresa? I've got tears flooding down my face now. And, I'm glad that in a giggle post, we can also have a certain sadness as well. It's finding the jewels in life isn't it? Your grandson must be a joy. To notice that you miss Indy is such a sharing moment. Little ones can teach us a lot. Great giggle, but why???? Hope you do a why story next:)) Talk soon.xxx
ReplyDeleteThank you Susan. I should write a why story I think x
DeleteChildren of that age are so adorable, and so honest. If only they could stay pre-school age for ever! Love my teenage grand children as well though. I'm lucky to have little ones too so I can experience all those moments again. It's great that you can enjoy the happy memories of Indy and Tilly and lovely that Dusty is providing you with new ones.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, very honest, Maggie. They don't give you any flannel do they bless them x
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