While scrolling through old pictures on my phone, I discovered this one. At a mall trip this summer, Sam and Catie tried out the EuroBalls. Fun was had by all ($10/minute fun, but a small price for occupied kids in the summer).
The picture is a good illustration of the strange, wonderful mind of Sam. He sees the world a bit differently. More imaginative. More sensitive. More curious.
He frequently asks completely earnest, serious questions like, “Mommy? Do you think I’ll turn into a Daddy today? What about a giant? Maybe Jesus?”
The kid has to be a bit on edge, never quite knowing what may happen to him.
A story…
I was volunteering for lunch duty at the twins’ school last week. Naturally, Sam and Elisabeth would much prefer me sitting with them than walking around opening pudding cups for their friends. I finally told them that I had to do my job or Mr. Gerber [headmaster] would fire me.
Surprisingly, this worked. Sam was fine with me making the table rounds…until he burst into tears.
I didn’t get the story of why until I picked him up that day.
Sam (whispering as we pass Mr. Gerber): Mommy! When he puts his hand in his pocket, he’s getting his gun!
Me: What gun?
Sam: The one he fires at people!
I tried and tried to explain what fired meant. No luck. He’s completely convinced that when Mr. Gerber puts his hand in his pocket, he’s reaching for his gun. He’s even added that the gun doesn’t hurt people, just makes them quit their jobs.
I told Mr. Gerber about this. Partly to explain any future tackling Sam might do. Partly as a “isn’t my kid silly?” story.
And partly to invite him into Sam’s World.
