These snippets of conversation occurred between Chloe and myself today. Nothing really prompted her to say any of this. These things have obviously been weighing heavily on her mind. Let's take a sneak peek into the mind of Chloe....
Chloe: Mommy. I like chicken bobs.
Mommy: Oh really? That's good to know.
Chloe: So, if you want to cook chicken bobs tonight, I'm okay with that.
In her world chicken bobs are equivalent to skewers or k-bobs on the grill. She typically doesn't eat meat (by her own choice). Thankfully, the chicken bobs we make pass the highly sensitive taste bud test of our very own 'in house' princess and food critic.
Chloe: Mommy, can I tell you somfin that's not good about be'in the littlest?
Mommy: You may.
Chloe: I don't like that I don't get to command anyone.
In her world, everyone gets to command her. So, I guess I can sympathize at the level of 'unfairness' she's already facing going into the world. She explained how Bennett always commands her and Gavin commands him and Mommy commands Gavin and Daddy commands Mommy. I'm so glad she's finally seen the light and recognizes chain of command. However, Chuck was quick to explain that her ever-loving brothers are not meant to command her, but love and play with her. Only Mommies and Daddies may command their kids. Your turn is coming Sweetie, just wait patiently. We also explained that 'commanding people' isn't all its cracked up to be because no listens to those with the (legitimate) 'power' to 'command'.
It always cracks us up when she speaks of 'commanding' someone. You'd think we are some super strict authoritarians who wield a whip and rod and walk around with grim faces all day forever pointing out all the rules that we are commanding our young subjects to live by. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Chloe just has control issues...at the ripe young age of 4. Her belief states that "the louder, whinier, higher pitched and more often I speak - the more everyone should listen to me and then I will finally be 'in command'. " I personally believe this is her life goal. Unfortunately, this does not fit in with our parenting philosophy. So, there's always a bit of tension when it comes to 'dethroning the princess'. We are making positive strides though.
