1, 2, 3 Zebra

I forget how easy and even fun it can be to go shopping with just one younger child. Tonight Sirah (age 2) and I went to the bank and grocery store. She was a lot of fun and very cute to be with. Since it was just us she could walk and hold my hand. She insisted on carrying the basket until I put a few pounds of flour in it at which point it got to heavy. She kept asking about things and telling me about things, and just being cute and playing games. It actually made grocery shopping and reminded me of the days when I could walk slowly through the produce aisle and ask what each thing was and talk about the color, back when I did not have two other kids pestering to move on, or begging for things or just trying to survive my way through the store. Today reminded me how fun it can be to shop with one child that age.

She picked out one of her favorite snacks at the coop, a fruit leather (not to be confused with fruit rollups or sugar by the foot) and was showing everyone it. She proudly placed it on the checkout belt and talked to the cashier. On the way out holding her with one hand and the groceries in the other we headed for the door.

She was emphatic that I stop before the doors opened. I was expecting an "abracadabra" or something of the like, instead it was "1, 2, 3, ZEBRA!" and she jumped in front of the door to make it open. She was so proud of herself and so excited, full of smiles and giggles. At first I did not think I heard right so I double checked as we arrived at the second door, once again "1, 2, 3, wait, 3, 6, 5 ZEBRA!" Another big grin and laughter. I joined in with her and told her how special she was and how much fun I had as I strapped her into her carseat for the drive home.

I think it will be a long time before I see an automatic door and don't think of this moment. So if you ever see a grown woman stop before a door and state "1,2, 3, zebra" as she jumps to open the door you will know it is me.

Treasure those little ones and all these precious memories.
Peace,
Tenn