Jelly Book


Most of our days in Lewis Land are pretty ordinary. There are day that are fun and exciting and days that are L-O-N-G!!!! They are, however, sprinkled with comments and antics that make life so enjoyable.  When my daughter was born, my childhood friend, Mary, suggested I begin a Jelly Book - which is basically a simple notebook that you jot down all the wonderful moments you don't want to forget.  She called it a jelly book because it's supposed to be an old notebook you keep in the kitchen where it's apt to become worn and stained with jelly and other marks of childhood and life.

I realized my blog was my version of a Jelly Book, so this is where I keep all those precious treasures.
G: Mommy, can I eat some goldfish?

Me: Not right now, we are getting ready to eat lunch.
G: Well, you know what? The angel of The Lord just told me that every princess like myself should eat goldfish at this time everyday. *smirk*
Me: Well, you tell the Angel of The Lord that he might want to run those declarations by me first. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I told Gianna once that I knew my guardian angel's name was Sebastian.  I told her the story of how I prayed about it and how it was revealed to me.   About a week later this conversation occurred:
G: "Mommy! I was just in the other room and God gave me a sign and he told me my guardian angel's name!"
Me: "Really? (Cautiously curious.)  And what is it?"
G: *stammer*stutter* "Ummm....it's Banana."
Me: "You had me going for a minute there, Gianna."
G:  (As serious as she could be....) Hey, I wonder if Sebastian and Banana are friends?"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Me:  Hey Gianna, it's time to get ready for bed.
G:  OK
This is how she returned....


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna:  I cannot believe tomorrow is Ash Wednesday!  I am SO excited.
Me:  That's a good thing to be excited about.
G: But it is a little nervousing to have burning ashes on me.
Me:  They already burned the palm leaves to get the ashes.  It's no longer burning, Gianna.
G: So, you're telling me it's blessed SOOT?
Me:  Well, I supposed you could say that.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna was sitting in her Kindergarten class and I was helping in her classroom.  She motioned me over and whispered....


G:  Mommy, you see Brian? (Name's been changed to protect the innocent.)

Me:  (Nonchalantly peeking over her shoulder) Yes.
G:  Look what he's doing?
Me:  I'm looking.  I don't see anything.
G:  Just keep looking.
(after a few seconds, Brian starts picking his nose.)
G:  You see that?
Me:  Yes, Gianna, but that's not nice to point out.
G: Mommy! (She said in a nervous panic.) I think I might have taught him that!
Me:  Well, you see!  Mommy's been trying to tell you picking your nose is not a good idea.  You might want to start setting a good example. 
Ha.

 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna asked me what I did when she was at school.  I started by saying I had coffee with a good friend.
G:  Oh!  I know. I bet you went to Starbursts!
Me:  Nope. Wasn't Starbursts.....or even StarBUCKS. :)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

We are usually at school when the gates open, but one day we got there later than our usual early bird time.  Gianna got a little nervous.  
G:  Mommy, the gates are already open!  Did the 'toody' bell already ring?
Me;  No, baby, the TARDY bell didn't ring.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Seeing many little boys in boy scout uniforms at school, and having talked to a few as to all the fun activities they did. Gianna mentioned that she would like to become a Boy Scout.
Me:  Well, Gianna, that's just for boys.  You DO know that there are Girl Scouts, right?
G:  Yeah, but all they do is sell cookies.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Gianna started piano lessons a few weeks ago.  She was so excited.  When I dropped her off she told me:

G: I can't wait to til I get out and I can play the Ave Maria for you.

Me:  Oh my, GIanna, I don't think you'll be able to pl.....um...uh...yeah, I can't wait!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

On Wednesdays, we drive straight from school to McNeese for piano.  I realized last time that I need to make a point to find a bathroom before we go in for the lesson.  I did so and as I returned to pick her up, I saw this assistant teacher open their door and usher Gianna out. "Oh," he said, "she has to go to the bathroom."
Me:  Um, no she doesn't, I took her less than an hour ago.  She's good.  (Giving Gianna 'the eye' and frustrated that she was trying to pull the wool over his eyes.
G:  Oh, I don't have to GO to the bathroom, but I have to do something in there. Mommy, can I tell you something in your ear?
(I bent down and she whispered...)
G:  He gave me this cool sticker and I wanted to put it on my stomach but I didn't want to do it in front of him.  Aren't you glad I was being modest?
Me:  Gianna, go back to your lesson!


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna recently received a birthday party invitation from a classmate.
She was so excited until she saw the graphic on the invite.
It looked something similar to this....
Gianna's eyes grew large and said, "What does this mean?  Is this a swinging the bat party?"
Me:  (Already knowing where her head was.)  How cool, GIanna, it's a softball theme!
G:  You have GOT to be kidding me. Are you serious?
Me:  What?  (I would have TOTALLY felt the same way, but i was trying to be positive.)
G:  It's a birthday party and we have to swing a bat?
Me:  Look, it says to bring a swim suit and a towel.
G:  Oh, good. OK, I'll go.

 (I swear the girl has my DNA)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna is almost always in a dress or coordinated outfit ~ mostly because we've inherited the most fabulous hand-me-downs over the years, but also because that's her preference.  Every now and then she wears 'regular' clothes and it's just so funny for both of us.  It's almost like a costume for her.  Like the morning last weekend when she wanted to "dress up" like a jogger.

When she put her tennis shoes on (which she really NEVER wears) she 
Oh my goodness!  Look how tall I am!  I can't believe this.  I think I can see the Eiffel Tower from here!

Ha!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
She got a paper cut the other day.  There was a dramatic reaction.  I tried to acknowledge how much they hurt and assure her that it would go away soon.
G:  You have NO idea how much this hurts.
Me:  I really think I do.  I've had a lot of paper cuts. I know they really hurt.
G:  Oh yeah, but I my cut is so bad, I can even see my bone in the middle of my finger!
Me:  Well, that sounds pretty severe. You think a band-aid will help?
G:  Oh yeah! 

 No mention of the paper cut again.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna has made friends with the principal (a woman) and the vice principal (a man) at her school.  She always greets them both with a hug and enters at least a short chat with them.  One day, upon entering the gates of the school we came upon both of them finishing a conversation and then they parted ways.
Gianna gave Ms. Wallwork a hug and they began their chat:

G:  Well, hi, Mrs. Wallwork.
MW:  Hi Gianna, how was your weekend?
G: It was good.  I was wondering....are you and Mr. Crosby (Vice Principal) good friends?
MW:  (Pausing thoughtfully) Well, yes, Gianna, I supposed we are good friends.
G:  Oh, well my friend, Cara and I were wondering if maybe you and he were dating.
Me:  *****MORTIFIED*****
MW:  Giggling.  No, we are not dating.  I don't think Mr. Crosby's wife would think too well of that.

Didn't see that one coming.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Math word problem Gianna wrote for me while playing teacher....
After correctly solving the problem, she got her red pen and happily marked my work wrong.
Me:  Gianna that's the right answer!
G:  Yeah well, you were supposed to copy the words, not just do the math.

Anyone looking for a Common Core math teacher?  She could be paid in donut holes.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Hey Mommy, I just met one of my best friends, Griffin, and I'd like to go outside and play with him. Is that OK?
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

We went to a baby shower and Gianna asked the expectant mom,
G: Are you getting cut open or are you going to push it out?
EM:  (Shocked) Oh, well, um....I am planning on pushing it out.
G:  Oh, it seems like that's going to hurt. Is it?
EM:  Well, they tell me it is.  But it won't last too long.
G:  So what is your baby eating inside of you.
EM:  Well, whatever I eat right now.
G: So does your baby pee in you?
EM:  Um....well....(looking to her sister in law who happens to be an MD)  Does the baby pee inside of me?
EM's MD sis:  Why yes, the baby does pee inside of her!
G:  So where does the pee go?  
EM's MD sis:  Well, actually it's sterile, so it's actually ingested by the baby.
Me:  Hey Gianna, let's get some cake.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
I may have mentioned that I enthusiastically bought a Summer Bridge Workbook (bridging the Kindergarten year to First Grade) which is basically a daily homework summer assignment.  Gianna's enthusiasm did not match mine and it was a daily struggle the ENTIRE summer.
One of the first days we worked on it, I was called to help do some clean up outside following a storm.
Gianna was ticked off at me and opened the front door to, not-so-lovingly, yell at me to check my room.  I was nervous to discover what she had done, but found this little gem waiting for me.
Well, at least she practiced her handwriting.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
We've had some very peculiar weather this year in our neck of the woods. At the start of school we had a series of bizarre and severe storms - which didn't help Gianna's adjustment to school.  Anyway, one day when I picked her up after school following a horrendous storm, Gianna got in the car and said, "Well, I wonder who woke the angry Giant?"  
Me:  What?  Gianna, I have no idea what that means.
G:  I mean, who woke the Giant?  You know, the ANGRY GIANT? 

 Let me take a little detour here and give you a little back story.

Living in SW Louisiana, we are always bracing for the possibility of hurricanes hitting our area.  Almost every Catholic church in our diocese regularly prays this Prayer for Safety in Hurricanes.  From June to the end of October, we have heard/prayed it very often, so much so that Gianna is very familiar with the eloquent text. There is a particular verse that goes like this.

 "The Gulf, like a provoked and angry giant, 
Can awake from its seeming lethargy, overstep 
Its conventional boundaries, invade our land, 

And spread chaos and disaster. "

When I finally realized the connection she made to the prayer, I couldn't stop laughing.
Well, at least she's paying attention at Mass!!!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
In Pre-K, Gianna came home proclaiming....
G:  Hey, Mommy, I'm the dudy today.
Me:  What?
G: I'm the dudy at school today.
Me: Did somebody call you that?
G:  Yeah - Ms. Lisa said I was the dudy.
Me: What does that mean?
G: It means when Ms. Lisa leaves the room, I get to take names of who was talking and not following the rules.
Me:  OHHH - you were ON duty.
G:  Yeah - that's what I said.
And apparently, when she was ON duty - she would get up, walk around, correct children who talked and gave back scratches to kids who followed the rules. Apparently someone is liking this little power trip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
We were cheering on my alma mater at football game and midway through the game Gianna noticed the players on the sidelines take their helmets off and kneel down.  She wanted to know what was going on.  I told her a player had gotten hurt and the other players were being respectful.

G:  Did he get the wind knocked out of him?
Me:  I'm not sure what happened.
G: (Folding her arms and shaking her head)  I sure hope it wasn't alcohol.
Me:  Why would you think that?  How do you know about alcohol?
G: Ms. Pam (teacher) told us all about it.  It can really mess you up.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
We were passing by the tv and Dancing with the Stars was on.  Figuring Gianna would like the dancing, I beckoned her to stop and watch.  She watched for about three seconds until she GASPED. 
G:  Well, THAT'S not very modest!!!!  Why is she showing so much skin and why doesn't that man have a shirt on!!!
Well, shame on me and good for her!  Glad some of these lessons are sinking in.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At an Italian restaurant, Gianna got uncharacteristically quiet.

G: "Do you hear that?"
Me: What?
G:  It's alien music!
Me:  (laughing) Well, actually - it's not alien music- it's opera.
G:  That's OPRAH?

 hahahaha
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

We recently had a terrible lice outbreak at a local private school which had everyone scurrying to jump on the prevention bandwagon.  After hearing stories of frustrated moms at ballet, I made a bee-line to CVS pharmacy to see what preventative products I could find. 

Satisfied with my choice, I placed my items on the counter at check-out.  Gianna quickly informed the clerk,  "These are for the children at OLQH school because they have bugs in their hair."

Me: (horrified, I quickly covering her mouth) Little Miss, these are for YOU!
G:  Hey! I don't have bugs in my hair.
Me: And we're trying to keep it that way. Besides, We don't mention those things to other people.
Clerk:  Girl - you're not telling any secrets.  I sold 60 Lice Treatment kits today.  I know all the scoop.
G:  (smile)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

After my shower I called Gianna in the bathroom to fix her hair.  She spotted my pile of discarded clothes on the floor and said,

"DANG!  Are those your boobie holders?  They're huge!"

Thank you. I'm well aware.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Looking at her own chest in the mirror she asked, "When are my 'nibbles' going to turn in to breastes?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While driving home from school one day, Gianna asked,
"Can I have ass-n when we get home?"
Me:  What?
G:  Can I have ass-n when we get home?"
Me: I heard you, I just have NO idea what that is?
G:  (frustrated) ASS - N!!!!
Me: I'm sorry - I still have no clue, Gianna.
G:  You gave me it this weekend...
Me;  What?
G:  When I was sick you kept making me drink it?
Me:  Ass-n?
G: Yes. You told me if I drank too much it would hurt my tummy.
Me:  You mean orange juice?
G:  Yeah - you said there's ass-n in it.
Me:  Gianna - it's called ACID.  Why didn't you just ask for orange juice?
G:  (shrug)
Me:  (sigh)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
When Gianna wants to race, she begins by saying, "On your market...get set....GO!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
We were in the grocery and Gianna said,
"Can I have Starbucks?"
(Two ladies whipped their heads around shocked at this request from a little munchkin.)
I was just as shocked....I rarely have Starbucks and don't ever bring her.
Me:  What do you mean?
G:  Those little square candies I got for Halloween....Starbucks.
Me:  Those are called Starbursts.
G:  Oh.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G: Hey Mommy, is it Happy Hour?
Me:  Umm....actually it is.
G:  Can you take me?
Me:  We'll see - but can you please say the word Sonic when you ask me to bring you to Happy Hour?  People are questioning my parenting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Me:  Gianna, what do you want for breakfast today?
G:  Panera Bread (We recently got a new restaurant in town - but she'd never been there.)
Me:  What? 
G:  Panera Bread - you know - that special kind you bought me?
Me:  That's Pepperidge Farms Pumpkin swirl.
G: Yeah - that.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While telling the above two stories to Gianna's friend's mom, she told me a cute story about her daughter.

Camille:  Mommy, Grandpa brought us to TWO restaurants today for lunch.
Mom:  Uh-oh - he shouldn't have done that.  Where did he bring you guys?
Camille:  Old McDonald's and Tinkerbell.

Mom said she got McDonald's quickly but it took her 10 minutes to figure out the second place.  Turns out, it was Taco Bell.  Hahaha. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
We went to a bowling party and Gianna was horrified to get a whiff of cigarette smoke once we entered the building.  The have a secluded little room with slot machines and I'm sure that's where it was coming from.  Gianna gives lectures on the subject of the dangers of smoking so she marched her little self up to the counter to complain that people should NOT be smoking in the building where other people were.  They lady got the biggest kick out of that and made her repeat her spiel to several other workers and patrons.
A few months later we went back to bowl with a friend and upon entering their was a huge standing NO SMOKING sign. Gianna was thrilled. 
"They listened to me.  They listened to my rules! This is great.  Now we don't smell cigarette smoke when we walk in.....just stinky bowling shoes!!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna's school did a fundraiser selling poinsettias.  Her sales pitch was really good.  While enjoying her recent Halloween tea party, Gianna delivered her pitch to Ms. Brenda:

G:  "Hi, my name is Gianna and we're selling poinsettias to raise money for our school.  They're beautiful, big red plants and they're only $10 each. How many would YOU like to buy?"
Brenda:  Well, I think I might like five.
G:  (sigh) Well, pretty much everyone is just getting two.
Brenda:  hahahahahahaha

Need to expound upon our sales training, I guess.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Overhearing a phone conversation I was having with my mother, Gianna surmised that we were invited somewhere.  She quickly interrupted saying, "Yes. Yes. We'll go. Where does MeMaw want us to go?  Tell her YES!"
Me:  Gianna - it's a picnic and it's really cold out and you're  just getting over being sick, I'm not sure it's the best idea.
G:  Oh please. Oh please. Oh PLEASE Mommy can we go?
Me: Gianna I'm just not sure yet.
G:  Mommy. I'll give you $40 if you say yes.
Me:  Really?  You've got a deal.  Pay up.
G: Umm.....

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
 Gianna is getting pretty good at singing the Star Spangled Banner.  Her name for it?
"Jose', can you see..." 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
One morning Gianna was holding the American flag and looking intently at it.
Me:  What are you doing?
G:  I just can't stop looking at the blue.
Me:  Why's that?
G:  Because the blue stands for courage.
Me:  :)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
One Saturday morning, Gianna and I were having a sad, lonely time of it - so I put Gianna in the car and did something out of the ordinary -- went to the Nail Salon to get pedicures.  (I swore I wouldn't do that when she was little. Oh well - no regrets.) 
Anyway, Gianna got a kick out of the experience and struck up a conversation with the nail tech.
G:  Are you Chinese?
Nail Tech:  No, no, no! I not Chinese - I Vietnamese. Look - You can see my eyes. They BIG.  You cannot see Chinese eyes cause they just have slits.
G:  (A little confused)  Oh.
NT:  Ness time - you not ask if someone Chinese.  You ask if they Asian. Okay?
G:  Okay.

Later on when someone asked who painted her nails.  She said, "Some lady who wasn't Chinese.  She was 'Casian.'"  (Guess that's and Asian/Cajun blend.)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While saying night prayers, I asked Gianna if there was anyone special she wanted to pray for.  She answered, "...the poor, banished children of Eve."  (Comes from the Hail Holy Queen prayer.) Before I could respond she said, "...And, why were the poor children banished anyway?"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna got a phone call from a friend of ours who was recently engaged.  He asked her to be their flower girl for their wedding next summer.
Gianna was ecstatic and very sweet in her response. 

When she got off the phone, she looked at me and said, "I'm so excited, but this is SO 'nervousing' for me!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While playing with her friend, Matthew, Gianna sweetly asked,
G:  Matthew, will you marry me?
Matthew:  (without missing a beat) Not unless it's in front of a preacher.  That's what my Dad says, anyway.

 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"WHAT is the Statue of Liverie doing in front of Wal-mart?" (Said while passing the poor workers dressed in costume in front of Liberty Tax Services.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G:  Guess what? I petted a Grape Dane at school today. 
Me:  A what?
G:  A Grape Dane.  He's a Ferapee dog.  He loves on people who are sick to help them get better.

God bless the therapy dogs.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
SInce she was VERY young, I've always been able to understand most everything she says. I've seldom been frustrated by trying to decipher her speech. But one day after school, she said,
"You say uh-uh."
Me:  I said what?
G: No. You say uh-uh.
Me: What did Mommy say.
G: No. You say uh-uh.
After a good five minutes of running around that circle and asking a ton of questions I figured it out. They learned a new letter at school that day.  The Letter U.
Hence the phrase, "U's say uh-uh"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While getting into the car on a particularly cold morning, Gianna noticed the that windows were iced over. "Mommy, LOOK! There's frosting on the windows!" 

Then as we began driving through the neighborhood, she realized that the rooftops and grass were dusted with white.  "It looks like Frosted Jack came last night, Mommy!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Playing in the tub I heard her say, "Oh look at this gourmet." 
Me:  Do you know what that means? 
G:  No, I made it up.
Me: Well, actually it's a really word.  It means fancy food.

She was amazed she guess a real word.

Next morning at breakfast she was very proud to use her new word.
"Well Mommy, you look very gourmet today."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Gianna brought a little craft home from school last week.  When I asked what it was she told me, "It's for Gram Hawk day. 

Clueless as to what she was referring, I asked for clarification.
Her explanation?

"It's when the Gram Hawk comes out of his hole and if he sees his shadow there will be six more weeks of winter."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
She had a park date with a school friend who had to leave to get ready for gymnastics.  Gianna was excited and surprised to learn her friend took gymnastics and was full of questions about the flips and tricks her friend was learning.

When we got home Gianna told me, "Mommy, can you BELIEVE that Nacey takes Olympics!"

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Why do the mens have nipples but no boobies?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While grocery shopping at Wal-mart, I turned down the soup isle and was met by a most offensive smell...that wasn't food related.  Once Gianna got a whiff of if, she groaned and loudly asked with a disgusted tone, "WHAT is that smell.?"  There were people who in close proximity so I quickly shushed her while explaining that we don't want to say those things so loudly.  When she asked why we couldn't do that I said, "Gianna, it could be that someone may have passed gas. We wouldn't want to embarrass them."

Her eyes grew wide and with a dismissive roll of them she said without missing a beat, "I don't think someone passed gas - I think someone passed poo-poo!"
I laughed for a good 15 minutes.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G: Hey, Mommy can I wear on your 'boobie holders?"
Me: First of all, it's called a bra and second of all, I think it's big enough to wear you.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I bought her several classic movies for Christmas.  One night we sat down to watch one of her choice.  Ready?   "The Lizard of Oz" 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
When we moved in to my parents' home Gianna slept in bed with me for about three months which was good for both of us.  About a week after I moved her in to her own room she told me she no longer wanted to sleep in there. When I asked why she said it was because there were ghosts in there.
Me:  Gianna, there's no ghosts in that room.
Gianna:  There ARE, Mommy.
Me: (quickly realizing I'd better validate her fears) Well, you're in luck.  I happy to have Ghost Spray. C'mon, let's go get get it.
(Astonished by my comment - followed me to my room where I grabbed some Body Spray I never use except to occasionally freshen my sheets.)
Gianna:  I cannot believe you have Ghost Spray!!!!! What does it do?
Me:  Watch. (I sprayed her entire room, under her bed, in the closet, the whole deal.)  OK, you're good!  No ghosts will come anywhere NEAR this spray.
Gianna:  Thank you so much!

Fast forward about a week later when we were getting ready for school.  I was putting on my make-up and she was watching me intently.  As I put powder on my face, she asked, "Can I have some of that?"  I was happy to oblige since I knew it wouldn't show on her. Then I put on my perfume and she excitedly asked if she could try some. 
Me:  Oh no, that's Mommy's expensive perfume. But here, you can have some of this.
(I quickly swiped a small bottle off my shelf and sprayed a tiny mist in the air in front of her.)
Her eyes BUGGED OUT of her head and she quickly asked, "IS THAT GHOST SPRAY????"
I stammered as I was trying to save face and concoct some sort of story until she interrupted with exasperation and an eye roll,  "GREAT! Now I'm gonna smell like a GHOST!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G:  Mommy, can we play ant piles in my hiney?
Me:  WHAT?
G: Can we play ant piles in my hiney?
Me: Gianna, what are you talking about?
G:  Remember that game we played at Matthew's house? Can we play that?
Me: Gianna, it's called Ants in Your Pants


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 (Fall- 2012)
9/22/12 
While we were driving in the car Gianna made some statement I had questions about.
Me:  How do you know that, Gianna?
G:  Because I'm smart.
Me:  You know, just because you are smart doesn't me you know everything.
G:  (under her breath)  I do too know everything.

*** Won't adolescence be a hoot!? ***

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
9/12 
We went to Mass and came back from Communion:
G:  Mommy, when do I get to go to "camilleyon"?
Me: When you're a little bit older - in second grade.
G:  Well, I'm in second grade.
Me:  Um, no - you're in Pre-K.
G: Well, does it taste like bread and butter?
Me: Not exactly - there's no butter on it.
G: Does is taste like bread?
Me:  (Scrunching my face a little trying to describe it) Well, it tastes a little like bread we eat.
G:  (With the same scrunched face) Ooooh, (nodding) it's a little bit sour.
Me:  (laughing) No not sour
G:  Can you just give me a piece of yours next time?
Me: No, Gianna. It doesn't work like that.
G:  Well, can you just breathe on me? (She likes the smell of the precious blood/wine)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At daily Mass after communion Gianna looked at me and said,
"Is it time for the baskets?" (collection)
Me: No, not today.
G:  You mean they don't do money at the cafeedral?
Me: (laughing) Yes, the do money here - just not today.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
It's quite a challenge to keep Gianna quiet in the mornings before my mom wakes up (or gets up).  She keeps a watchful eye at my parents bedroom door to get any sign of a wakeful grandparent. Last week: 
G:  (excitedly) Mommy!  Guess what?! MeMaw's light is on!!!!
Me:  You know what that means, don't you?
Me: (Not giving her a chance to response) It means you are NOT to go in her room.
G: Under her breath.  Hmph. That's not what it means to me.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
After a morning of school and a playdate that replaced her nap, we got in the car and Gianna said, "Whew! I am cracked out."  (wiped out)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Every morning on our way to school, Gianna says,
"Mommy, I'm going to be SOOO good for you at school today."

Yesterday, I got the giggles when she said it and I asked her, "Gianna, how come you tell me that every day when we pass this bank on the corner."

Her reply,  "Oh, because that's a sign we're getting really close to my school."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While struggling through a little attitude during homework, I decided not to fight it. 
Me:  Okay, fine.  If that's how you want to write your name, then that's how you can turn it in to Ms. Lisa
G:  We CAN'T turn it in to Ms. Lisa like that!!!!!
Me:  Why not?
G: Because she's going to absent me.
Me:  What do you mean?
G:  She absented Baylee from school today - and then Baylee didn't show up

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
G:  I am so humiliated.
Me:  Do you know what that means?
G:  No...but I heard it and I liked it.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * *
Mommy, did you take your 'eyetacts' out?  (contacts)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

My brain is hot. (I think she was referring to her forehead.)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

G: Mommy, you want to watch your "fixing" show?
Me:  What kind of show is that?
G: The show that they fix the walls and the furniture and the room.
Me: Oh HGTV?  - no thanks.
G:  How 'bout your cooking show?
Me: No thanks.
G: How 'bout that singing show?
Me:  No, I'm good, Gianna.
G:  Well, than how 'bout Olivia?  (Crafty little bugger.)
* * * * * * * * * * * *

G:  Hey, Mommy - you could take me to Honey's so we can pick satsumas?
Me:  Well, I don't think there are any left on the trees now.
G:  Kids love Cuties. (Straight from the commercial...which is funny because we rarely watch commerical tv.)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

G:  I'm so tired because you make me work so hard.
Me: Oh really?  Would you like to tell me how you figure that?
G:  Well, all day long you make me play and play and play and I am so hungry and tired.
Me:  May this always be your biggest complaint with me.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Random:  "Humph. This is IMPOSSIBLE."

* * * * * * * * * * * *

I took an alternative route home the other night and upon  arriving at our small town, Gianna said with obvious shock:  "Mommy, how did we GET here?"

Me: I drove, Gianna.

G:  I know. But we didn't even go through Wessalake!!  (Westlake - neighboring town)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Random:  "Oh my child, it will be okay."

* * * * * * * * * * * *

After taking a bite of her supper,
"Hmmm.  Needs more salt."
(I was a little offended until she admitted she heard it from a movie.)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
At Church on Sunday Gianna was proud of herself for offering her had to an elderly lady during  the Our Father at Mass.  After the prayer and their hands dropped, Gianna quietly declaired,
"I am so pleased to meet you!"

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Why do we have to cast our bird on Jesus (burden)?

* * * * * * * * * * * *

On our way home one night,
"Mommy, Chuck E. Jesus!"
What?
"There's Chuck E. Jeesus!"
Me: Gianna, you've never been there and I've never talked about Chuck E. Cheese. How do you know about Chuck E. Cheese?
"It's from my show. You know, on PBS."

* * * * * * * * * * * *

G:  Mommy, I don't want to eat 'hosanya' tonite.  (Cross between lasagna and hosana -- I almost cannot say lasagna correctly anymore because her.) 

* * * * * * * * * * * *
While grocery shopping:
G: Mommy can you buy me some cracked pudding?
Me: Gianna, I have NO idea what cracked pudding is?
G:  Look, Mommy, right there!
(She was pointing to this.....)
Makes perfect sense.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

As a party favor, Gianna received cookie mix in a jar.
She was thrilled when we decided to make the cookies.
First she said,
"Oh look!  There's potty treats in those cookies!"
(M&M's)
"Can you take the sand out so we can make the cookies?"
(the brown sugar)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Answering my phone.
House phone:  Answers before I can grab phone.  Recorded solicitor.
Me:  Gianna, who is it?
G:  (in a whisper)  It's MeMaw.
(G waits for a minute listening intently and then says in a stage whisper)
G:  Mommy, MeMaw says to press "1"
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Fussing at me:  That is very in appropriate!
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Is that PePaw 'lowing the mawn'? (mowing the lawn)
Mommy, is Hocapontus a princess? (Pocahontus)
Can I have cretzels to dip in my hummus?  (Pretzels)

* * * * * * * * * * * *
G:  Mommy, is Mr. Rudy going to be at Annie's house?
Me: No, he's working. He's flying a plane right now.  Do you remember what that's called?
G:  Yeah, a PIRATE!! 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * *
I know lots of folks like the kids show Yo Gabba Gabba.  I, however, am not one of them. The silliness is excessive and it just annoys me to no end.  (Not to mention the fact that the one episode she saw was about the tooth fairy which caused to be terrified that 1) her teeth were going to one day fall out and 2) someone was going to come into her room at night while she was sleeping and reach under her pillow and take them.  Lovely.

Anyhoo, one day a preview of the show came on Nick Jr. and she says to me,
"Okay Mommy, I know you do not care for Yo Gabba Gabba, but I DO care for Yo Gabba Gabba. Do you think we can work something out?"

She says she wants to a doctor but, we just may have an attorney on our hands, folks.

* * * * * * * * * *
We got Gianna got some cute little brown expensive Mary Janes for really cheap. This is the conversation that happened after she put them on.

G:  Mommy these shoes don't fit.
Me:  Are they too big or too small.
G:  Ummm...too small.
Me:  (checking the fit)  Gianna, look at all this room for your toes.
G:  Yeah, well - Mommy (pause) I just don't really like them.
Me:  Gianna these are so cute.
G:  Mommy, they look like Santa shoes!
Me:  Hahahahaha

* * * * * * * * * * * *
Often when she's frustrated, disappointed or angry she'll say:
"Oh, this is just impossible!"

* * * * * * * * * *
Me:  Gianna, you don't like that cookie? (after she took one bite)
G:  No Mommy, I'm not a big fan.

* * * * * * * * * *
I haven't really introduced the concept of a Christmas list or a letter to Santa - just because I don't want the whole focus to be about 'getting.'  Well, a precious 11 year old friend filled her in today and asked her what she was going to ask Santa to bring her.  She quickly replied,
"A Barbie Jeep and some Christmas Eggs." 
Hmm.  We may need a little remediation on holiday symbols.

* * * * * * * * *
I was rinsing the shampoo out of her hair and she said,
"Ahhhh.....easy as pie."

* * * * * * * * * *
Lately when I give her something Gianna replies,
"Thank you, your majesty."
(And no, I didn't train her to say that...nor do I correct her! :)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Grief Edition (shortly after her daddy died)
August 2011


Gianna talks about him a lot.  A few days after he died while she was giving us one of her 'live concerts' with her guitar in tow - I mentioned that I bet Daddy was in heaven telling all the people,
"Would you just look at my baby girl!  She is amazing! Yep, that's my Monkey-Doo!"
She was intrigued by that comment and it began an interesting occurrence...

Regularly (most often when we're in the car) she asks me,
"What do you think Daddy is saying to me right now?"
Early on she said, "You be Daddy."
So, I lower my voice and tell her what I think Iain might be saying.
G: Oh Daddy, I miss you so much.
Me as Daddy:  Oh, sweetheart, I'm really really close to you.  I miss you too, but I'm watching over you from heaven.
G:  Daddy I laid on you and kissed you and talked to you (at the funeral home.)
Me as Daddy:  I know, sweet girl, I remember everything. I hear you every time you talk to me.
G:  Daddy, I whispered to you to wake up.
Me as Daddy: Oh I know.  I wish I could have woken up for you - but now I have to love you from heaven.
G:  Can you give me hugs and kisses.
Me as Daddy: Oh yes. I do all the time.  We call them heaven hugs and heaven kisses.
G: Daddy, can you please love Mommy big big.  She is really really sad.
Me as Daddy:  (Almost not able to speak)  Oh yes, I promise I will always love your Mommy in a very special way.
G:  You live in my heart, Daddy.
Me as Daddy: You live in my heart too, Gianna  I love you so much.
G: I love you big much too Daddy.

Sometimes the conversations go on for 20 minutes.
Sometimes she tells him what she's been doing. Sometimes she asks him big questions.  Sometimes she shares her love and longing. Sometimes she even shares her sadness and anger.
And sometimes, I am choking back tears and can hardly answer her.
Thank God this precious child is still communicating with and loving her Daddy.
I am sure he is beyond proud.
I know I am.

* * * * * * *
She comes to be fairly often with tears spilling from her eyes saying,
"Mommy, my heart is brokeeen."
:(

* * * * * * * *
G:  Oh Mommy, my drips keep coming out. (tears)
Me:  I know, my love, but that's how God helps to heal our broken hearts.  Our tears help release some of the sad from our hearts.
G:  But my sad won't stop leaking out.
(Neither will mine, sweet girl.)

* * * * * * *
Gianna asked the other night if she could have some medicine before bed.
I asked her why she needed medicine.
"To take my sad away." she replied.

* * * * * * *
Tonight during prayer she asked me if I loved her.
"Oh yes! My heart is so FULL of love for you it feels like it will burst!"
"Oh," she said, "My heart is full of sad."

* * * * * * *
Be assured that, overall, this precious child is doing remarkably well....all things considered.

She is my sunshine and my amazing grace.
We laugh a lot and have a lot of 'normal' moments sprinkled throughout our grief.
We continue to ride on the prayers of SO MANY people.
I'm certain those prayers are the reason I'm able to get out of bed every morning and function with some sort of regularity.....even with grace and peace. There is no explanation, but prayer!
Thank you to all you prayer warriors who continue to lift us up.
I am so very grateful.

* * * * * *
Spring/Summer 2011

* * * * *
Gianna often wants to know if random people are happy. Usually she asks us right after she gets into trouble.  When we went to Florida we were driving to her uncle's house:
G: "Is Uncle Robert happy?"
Me:  Oh, I bet he's in heaven right now. (Referring to him having his whole family visiting him.)
G: Uncle Robert died?

* * * * *
Me:  Gianna, why are you blinking so much?
G:  Well, I think my allergies are trying to come out.

* * * * *

G:  No, Mommy - not in the sun!  I want to live in the dark shade.

* * * * *
At a children's concert talking about the song, "Whatcha want to be when you grow up?"

Me:  What do YOU want to be Gianna? (She usually says doctor of fireman.)
G:  Frweee.
Me:  You just turned three, Gianna.
G: Oh. Then Frwee and a half.

* * * * *

Prior to that same concert, I'd asked G several times what she wanted to be when she grew up.
Consistantly her answer was, "A boy."
Well, I did tell her she could be anything she wanted. (Gosh, I sure hope I'm not going to be in the same support group as Cher!)

* * * * *
G:  Mommy, come with me. Quick!
Me: What's wrong, Gianna.
G:  Jesus, is on the ceiling. Come look!
My curiosity piqued, I quickly followed her.
G:  Look Mommy, he's up there!
(Pointing to the crucifix above the door.)
G: You see him?  He rose from the dead!!!!

* * * * *
During nighttime prayer:
Me:  Is there anything you're are thankful for tonight?
G:  Black.
Me:  Umm..... Black? You want to tell me more about that?
G:  Yes...I am thankful for black choc-o-late.  When I'm four could you make me a choc-o-late cake?  I like the white cake, but I LOVE choc-o-late cake!

* * * * *
Another night during prayer:
G:  ...God bless Sophia, baby Joseph, and Ms. Nichole...(smiles)...Rock and Roll, Ms. Nichole.....(proud grin)....that rhymes!

* * * * *
After a a good ten minutes of her attempt to fight her nap, I entered her room only to find her out of bed (which she rarely tries) and playing with her dollhouse. 
"Gianna?!" I said sternly.
"Oh, hi Mommy, I had a lovely sleep!" 
Nice try, dumpling.

* * * * *
As I was driving (about 35mph) after being stopped at a traffic light for several minutes Gianna said in a very concerned voice:
"Woa! Mommy. What are you doing? Why are you going so fast?  Gentle, Mommy, Gentle!"

* * * * *
Gianna's not sick very often, but every now and then after she cries (new pastime) she complains,
"Oh no, Mommy! Now I'm all 'snuffy!'"

* * * * *
Gianna was crying after she had gotten scolded and said,
"Oh NO! I can't see."
I started getting concerned and asked, "Gianna, why can't you see?"
"Because of the drips in my eyes."

* * * * *
One day we stopped for a train on our way home.  As we watched it pass, Gianna asked me,
"Hey Mommy, Is that train going west?"
(Not left, but WEST.   I actually had to see where the sun was setting to figure out that the train was indeed traveling westward.  Geez!)

* * * * *
I can count on my right hand how many times I've had to wake Gianna up in the morning.
Last week was one of those times.
She was so groggy and could barely open her eyes.
Me:  Wake up, Sleepyhead, we have to go to swimming lessons and the funeral home.
Gianna (barely able to lift her head):  Ummm....maybe Saturday.
Me: (laughing) No, not Saturday, today.
Gianna:  Or how 'bout Christmas?

* * * * *
Lately, we've had a lot of family friends who have passed away.  I'm pretty impressed by her understanding of the difficult concept.

G:  Mommy, George died? 
Me:  Yes Gianna, he did.
G:  George went to heaven?
Me:  Yes Gianna, that's right.
G:  Mommy, we're all going to die.
Me: Well, eventually - yes.
G:  But Mommy, I don't want to die yet.
Me:  Me neither, Gianna.  Let's wait.

* * * * *
I gave Gianna some frosted mini wheats for a morning snack.
About 20 minutes later she came up to me,
G:  Mommy, can I have something to eat?
Me:  Gianna, I just gave you mini wheats that you didn't eat.
G:  But Mommy, I DID eat them.
Me:  Gianna, the bowl is full.
G:  Yeah, but I only ate the 'cream'.

* * * * *
Another time she did the same thing with pretzels....licked the salt off, left the pretzels.

* * * * *
Soaking wet after playing on the Slip-n-Slide, Gianna says,
"Mommy, can I go on the swing?
Not wanting to stay outside, I replied,
"Well, Gianna you're all wet.  It'll be very slippery."
Gianna's response:
"So, Mommy.....how bout you put me in the swing.....and then if I'm too wet and slippery, THEN we can go inside."
Who's going to say no to that logic?

* * * * *
On the swing:
"Hey Mommy, wanna push me Super Pie?''

* * * * *

G:  Oh no. It's brokeeen.
 (I love the way she says broken and rarely correct her.)

* ** * *
My dad was recently in the hospital and on our way to visit him we spoke with a hospital worker emptying out a trashcan in the hallway.
G:  And what is YOUR name?
Worker:  I'm Carmen.  What is your name?
G:  I'm Gianna.  What are you doing Carmen?
Worker:  I work here.
G:  Oh, good.  My PePaw is here and he's sick.  Can you make him better?

{melt}

* * * * *
The first day of swim lessons, the precious instructor tried and tried to get G to put her head under water.  Finally, she looked at him, tilted her head and said,
"Mr. CJ, I'm just a little kid!"

* * * * *
We had a large packing box that Gianna turned on it's side and turned into a rocket.
We just read a book from the library called Mail Harry to the Moon (so cute) and she asked me if I could send her to the moon in her rocket.
Every time she got in the box I'd begin the countdown....
Five, four, three, two, one....
The door (lid) would fly open and Gianna would have a panicked expression and
say, "Ummm....Mommy, can you come to the moon with me?"
Me:  Oh Gianna, I can't today.  I have to cook supper.
G:  Well, can Max come with me?
Me:  No, silly. Max is a dog.  He can't go to the moon.
You'll be okay.  Ready?  Five, four, three, two, one.....
G: NOOO.  I don't want to go to the moon!
Me:  But I thought you wanted to go?
G:  Yeah...but I'm just a little nervous.
Me:  Really? Why?
G:  Mommy? Is this for pretend?

* * * * *
March 2011

* * * * *
Me:  Gianna, do you know how much I love you?
Her typical answer is 'BIG MUCH!"
This time:
Gianna:  "Finally!"

* * * * *
After a rough little patch after some poor toddler behavior, she obviously sensed I was outdone.
Gianna:  Mommy, maybe you can stop being angry.

* * * * *
Gianna:  Mommy, get me some milk!
Me:  Gianna, that is VERY bossy.  Ask nicely. Please don't be bossy.
Gianna:  That's right.  Only Mommy be bossy.
yikes

* * * * *

Gianna:  Aaaaah!  A mosquito. A mosquito. Get it Mommy.
Me:  Calm down, Where is it Gianna?
Gianna:  (panicked)  Right there. Right there. Get it Mommy!
Me: Gianna, I don't see it where is it.
Gianna: (exasperated) Right there on Tomahawk Drive. (name of our street)

* * * * *

Snuggling in bed on a Sunday morning, Gianna told Iain,
"Hey Daddy, I like your nipples."

* * * * *
* * * * *
I was cooking in the kitchen and she was sitting in a chair watching me.
G:  "Whatchya doin', Tartamella?"
(my maiden name -- don't ask me how she managed to orchestrate that sentence!)
Me:  What did you say, Gianna? (not believing what I heard)
Gianna:  Watchya doin', Mommy?
Me:  What did you call me the first time?
Gianna:  (laughing) Tartamella

 * * * * *
Iain took Gianna to Lowe's and Gianna told him, "That lady has a baby in her tummy."
Iain panicked because he saw a lady down the isle who was clearly not pregnant - just stout.  Iain was trying to change the subject with her to spare an awkward situation from happening.  Once they came upon the 'non-pregnant' lady - a visibly pregnant lady passed them up.
"See, daddy?"

* * * * *
Gianna to Iain:  Therese broke her leg, daddy.
Iain:  Who?
Gianna:  Therese did.
Iain (rolling his eyes):  Gianna, Therese didn't break her leg.
Gianna:  She really did, daddy.
Iain looked at me as if I would talk some sense into her.
Me:  She really did, daddy.

* * * * *
We were at a birthday party of a story-time friend and Gianna was swinging next to another little two year old.
Gianna:  Mommy, what's her name?
Me (not remembering):  Ask her.
Gianna to the little girl:  Hi Oscar, I'm Gianna.

(I almost peed in my pants laughing at that one.)

* * * * *
Anytime I tell Gianna no for something her repsonse is always,
"Maybe see, mommy."
(As in maybe we'll see.)

Along the same lines, if I tell Gianna, "Not right now."  Her response is
"Maybe Fursday, Mommy." (Thursday)
I hear this at least 10 times a day and think it's just so cute.

* * * * *
Leaving story time at the library, Gianna ran up to Ms. Elizabeth (lead story-teller) and told her,
"Thank you so much for coming."


* * * * *
I was matching socks in Gianna's room while she played with her kitchen.  She walked up to me and said, "Mommy, thank you so much for working so hard."
Dear heavens....that was better than gold.
February 2011
We march a lot.  Gianna often requests marching music, but when I can't provide it - she starts marching anyway and calls back over her shoulder, "Can you feel the beat?"

* * * * *


We were driving and Gianna spotted something, "The KEY!!!"  Completely confused by what she said, I responded, "What Gianna?"  She looked down, shook her head and said,  "Never mind."

* * * * *
Gianna:  Mommy, I wanna go play on the diving board.
Me:  Umm....we don't have a diving board.
Gianna:  Yes, Mommy - in the sunroom. I'll show you.

(She dragged me into the sunroom to point out the treadmill. Ha.)

* * * * *
Gianna was hanging on the arm of the treadmill....swinging
Me: Gianna, do you remember what happened the last time you swung on the treadmill?
Gianna:  Yeah,  I broke my back.

* * * * *
The weather has been super cold lately, and on our way to my mom's house we saw a man doing yardwork.  He was bundled up in a black parka coat.
Gianna:  Mommy LOOK!!!!!! (In an excited whisper)  It's a gorilla!!
* * * * *

Gianna:  Mommy. Don't you want to hold me? 
or Don't you want to play with me? - kinda hard to say no to that!

* * * * *
At prayertime.
Me:  Gianna, should we pray that God sends you a brother or sister.
Gianna:  Oh yes.  How 'bout Benjamin.
Me:  Well, he's already got a family...but that's really sweet.

* * * * * 
overheard on the baby monitor in a sweet soft voice

Gianna:  Umm...does somebody wanna come get me?

* * * * *
I let G watch a youtube video of a little girl singing a Whitney Houston song on Britain's Got Talent

I asked her if she wanted me to teach her that song.

She said, "Well, Mommy - could you teach me how to howl like that?"

* * * * *
My mother watched Gianna for me while I was on jury duty.  When I left her house one day, Gianna asked my mom, "MeMaw, where's mommy going?

MeMaw:  Well, she went downtown to a big building and with a bunch of other people and they have to wait to see what the big important man says they have t do.

Gianna: No, MeMaw. She's at the courthouse for Jury Duty!
* * * * *
Gianna told me, "I feel sick, Mommy."
I looked at her quizically since I'd never heard her say that before.
She then said,
"I have temperature."
I figured she was pretending, but went ahead and felt her forehead, and it was warm.
Took her temperature and by golly, she had a low-grade fever.
That's one of the blessings of having a verbal child.

* * * * *

Following the "I feel sick." comment, I called for an appointment with the doctor.
At bedtime I told her we were going to the doctor the next day. I may as well told her she was going to Disney World.
"Go see Doctor Decker!" she exclaimed.
"Yes, Gianna, that's right." I said.
"Check my heart."
"Yes."
"Check my ears."
"Yes,"
"Check my mouth. Aaaaah."
"Yes."
"And check my feelings."
Check my feelings! That made me smile.  I guess I ask her fairly often how she's feeling and it made perfect sense to her that the doctor wanted to know the same thing.
I thought that was so cute.
"Doctor Decker give me a 'rellypop?' (a.k.a. lollipop)
Before I could say anything, she pointed her little index finger at me and said,
"Don't ask!"
I have been trying to help her understand the concept of not asking for things like candy and apparantly it's starting to sink in....although she still asked when got to the clinic.

* * * * *

The topic at Story Time at the Library was "SHAPES."
The next day we were driving and came to a four-way stop.  "Look, Mommy -- an octagon! I found it!" she said excitedly as she pointed to the stop sign.

* * * * *
Speaking of Story Time: While we were there waiting for it to begin, Gianna reached into my purse and pulled out a great big purle wrapped maxi pad.  Before I could confiscate it, she held it up and announced,
"This is Mommy's toilet paper!"
Her first show and tell.
Lovely.

* * * * *

Every time we pass a schoolyard, she asks, "Gianna go to school?"
I told her she can go when she's a big girl.
"Gianna big girl!" says the smart child.
I then told her she can go to school when she's five.
The next day she asked me where Tyler (our neighbor) was.
I told her he was in school.
"Oh," she said, "He five."
* * * * *
She was sitting on her new toddler bed as I was putting her socks on.
She pointed her little index finger at me and said,
"No jumping on bed." she told me.
She was a BIGtime jumper in her crib.
"That's right, Gianna." I said, nodding.
Then she said with a furrowed brow and pointed finger in my face,
"Dis is a bed. It NOT a 'jumpoline'!!!" (a.k.a trampoline)
I agreed as I laughed at her serious scolding, assuming she was repeating a warning dished out by her daddy.
I later asked my husband if he ever spoke those words to her.
Nope. Apparently that was her own little note to self. :)
* * * * *

Me:  "Gianna, who's not listening to their mommy?"
Gianna:  "Therese." she said matter-of-factly.

* * * * *
There was a kid in Wal-mart who was throwing a tantrum.
Gianna looked at me with wide eyes and said,
"He not being good listener."

* * * * *
Lately, every time we see an African American women in public Gianna calls loudly,
"OPRAH!"

* * * * *
"Hey Mom." Gianna said casually as she passed me in the kitchen.
(What is she? TWELVE? She calls me Mommy.)
"Um, Mom? Excuse me, Gianna, but that's not my name."
Her very quick reply, "Hey Maria!"
Turkey.
* * * * *
After noticing her dad's new haircut, without prompting she says,
"Hey Daddy. Your hair cute."


* * * * *
Me: Gianna, come here.
Me: Gianna, come to Mommy so we can put your shoes on.
I finally looked up to see what the hold up was.
She was standing in the doorway watching me.
Gianna: Count.
(As in: Count to 3 so I can see what you're going to do when you get to three, Mommy.)

* * * * *
Gianna was eating chicken for lunch and dipping it in ketchup. Jessie and I were eating chicken burgers and had all the condiments on the table. Gianna said, "Please have yellow ketchup?" (mustard)

* * * * *
Lately she wakes up saying, "Mommy, want some grits? C'mon Mommy."


* * * * *
Along those same lines, her current food blessing begins, "Bess us, uh Lawd, and dees dy grits...."

* * * * *
She recently tried cottage cheese for the first time and likes it.
Yesterday she asked, "Please have Cot-to cheese?"


* * * * *
After she ate dinner I asked, "How would you like some orages or some yogurt or maybe some pineapple?"
She looked upward, tapped her finger on the side of her jaw as if to be in serious thought, and said, "Hmmmmm. How 'bout a popsicle?"

* * * * *
As she was quietly drifting off to sleep performing her routine Gianna Lewis Variety Show, I heard her jumping in her crib (I don't fight it) and then she stopped and said, "Look Mommy, I getting out!" She didn't, but I fear it won't be long now. I seriously didn't think she'd figure out that she could escape.

* * * * *
Usually she's in bed at 7pm and wakes up precisely at 7am. For some reason she has been waking up VERY early this week. One day, when I realized she would not go back to sleep, we stumbled walked down the hall and into the living room. She glanced out the window and dramatically gasped...
"Mommy! I see DARK!"

* * * * *
When Iain mows the lawn or has an especially dirty day at work, Gianna often tells him,
"Daddy stinky. Go take shower?"

* * * * *
If she hears our keys jingle, she comes running from the farthest corner of the house, straight to the door yelling,
"C'mon. Jonna. Let's go Jonna. Wanna go in car, Jonna?"

* * * * *
My parents were over and Gianna did something she wasn't supposed to, so I took her hand, led her to the hallway and put her in time out. (It was a new place for her and she was intrigued.) She was quiet and after a minute or so, I set her free. A few minutes later she started to do something and I said rather calmly, "Gianna."
She turned around and smiled,
"I go Time Out."
I said, "No, Gianna you don't have to go to time out."
"I go." she said.
And she did.

* * * * *
On my phone I'm able to call people by pushing a button and saying their name.
I don't use it often, but it comes in handy when I'm en route somewhere.
When I call Iain, I have to say his name loudly and annunciate perfectly, or it will call someone else.
Last week I let her play a game on my phone when, all of a sudden, I heard the sound of my voice activated calling device. At that familiar tone, she spoke clearly and loudly into my phone,
"CALL IAIN LEWIS".
And my phone called him.
I laughed all day.

* * * * *
She calls a trampoline a "jumpoline" - which makes a whole lot more sense to her - and to me.

* * * * *
The other day, Gianna was playing and singing. We heard her singing "The Farmer in the Dell" and chuckled when she sang the second verse which is usually "The farmer takes a wife..."
Her version: "The famer takes a shower...."
Smart girl.

 * * * * *
Gianna was contorting her body in order to more intently inspect her elbow. She gasped. "Mommy! Anovver belly button!" I laughed. "It DOES look like a belly button, Gianna, but it's called a dimple. Did you know you have dimples in your cheeks too?" Her curiosity was piqued. I brought her to the mirror and pointed to her cheeks. "Now smile, Gianna." She did. She saw. She giggled. Over and over and over.

The other night, I made quesadillas for supper. Later on Iain put Gianna the bed and came back laughing. He told me he asked Gianna for a kiss. She gave him one....and proudly proclaimed it a "Kiss-a-dilla."

* * * * *
Four year old Hunter's first meeting with Gianna. He sat down with Gianna on his lap, unwrapped her blanket, looked at her feet, looked up with wide eyes and exclaimed, "Hers got hand feet!"

* * * * *
Ten year old Annabeth's announcement that, "Gianna is so sweet, that if I had a cup of coffee right now, I'd just have to dunk her right in it."

* * * * *
When Gianna was a week old and my friend, Rose, came to visit for the first time she was overcome with emotion and just kept thanking God for His goodness. Holding this little five pound answer to prayer, Rose said through her tears..."Oh my gosh! I haven't even finished thanking God for IAIN yet!!!" - Me neither, Rose

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