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January 27, 2005
The science experiments continue
That's what I choose to call these little tests of will that Gus is throwing our way.
Tonight it was a little pinch on my finger, all while watching my face.
THEN it was the clinching of the fists and face and grunting in frustration after I told him not to do something.
While this is happening, I always clearly say no and then give him alternative behavior...like kissing mama, or 'nice mama' (which means nice petting of mama rather than slapping), or biting something that isn't human, you know, things of that nature.
The hardest part? NOT LAUGHING. It's hard! It's like I see a glimpse of Gus at 9 or 10... or 11, 12, or 13...my God, so many possible years of testing, but with a bigger brain and more smarts. It's hard because he already has that look, the kind where after he's done something he kind of looks off and smirks? Is that hard-wired? Where the hell did he learn that? I can see how people would think that the child is being manipulative or purposeful in his actions, because it's the same behavior you can see everyday at work (minus pinching, I hope). I laugh because I know he doesn't even know what he's doing other than testing his world out. I just have to be careful not to laugh outloud.
This reminds me of an incident I was involved in as a child. I was probably five or six (Mom?). I was in my bedroom. Mom came in. I don't remember the details around how we ended up there, but I do remember this: I flipped my Mom off. Wow, she didn't like that, so she said, "Don't do that." Now, at this point, I'm thinking, hey...this is getting to her. I have no idea what this finger means but it is a sharp, aggitating weapon!
So I flipped her off again.
That's when I experienced my first of two spankings in my life.
That didn't stop me, though. First I signed, "That didn't hurt!" (Make the 'F' sign, or the 'ok' sign with both hands, shaking them back and forth, all the while making a bratty face). Then: Out... came... the... DOUBLE FLIP OFF. Yes, both hands, aimed right at Mom.
That's when I experienced my second of two spankings in my life.
Let's just say I've never flipped my Mom off again. I'd suggest you refrain, too. Mom's got a hidden can of whoop ass that only comes out on very, very RARE occasions. (Love you, Mom!)
To end on an upbeat note, Gus has taken to grunting with pleasure while eating. Tonight, Gus and I were sitting on the floor, playing. He stopped, got very quiet, and looked towards the door, as if he had heard something. He started signing and saying "Papa!" Unfortunately, it wasn't Papa, as he was out celebrating someone's last day in the office. When I called John to tell him that, he said, "I'm never doing anything after work ever again!"
We'll see about that.
On a secondary upbeat note, next week is John's last week at his current job. He's going to be freelancing for six months at...
Orbitz.
Posted by janna at January 27, 2005 08:55 PM
Comments
Oh Gus - he's hilarious.
I totally lose it when kids do stuff like that - so I'm not really a disciplinarian with the six-pack.
Have you read The Scientist in the Crib? Your entries remind me of that book....Cuddles said it was very informative.
Posted by: alyssa at January 28, 2005 11:00 AM
I have to say that I have heard that story about your Mama and Grandma Shirley before, Gus. It cracks me up every time I hear it. It is actually hillarious to hear and watch your Grandma tell the story because she actually has what I am assuming is the same look of "horror" on her face when she tells it. Maybe shock is a better word. When you are older she can tell you the story herself and you let me know which word best describes it!
Please be nice to your Mama, Gus. She is one of the sweetest people I know. She was an awesome child @ 10 when I met her and she has grown sweeter by the year.
Gus, please ask your Mama if they need any Cardiopulmonary Directors at Orbitz. I think it sounds like a great place and I am hoping there will be something there for me.
Keep experimenting, little guy. It just gets better and better.
love, Aunt Deb
Posted by: Aunt Deb at January 28, 2005 08:46 PM