The Sound of a Kiss May 8, 2008
Our sweet Ladybug has developed the most endearing skill. After months of simply placing her cheeks next to ours or, much more unpleasant, opening her mouth and slobbering all over us for a kiss, she has learned to keep her mouth closed and make the most precious tiny smacking noise. She can be spontaneous with this new sign of affection, running toward us and leaning in with her lips pursed. Or she can use it underhandedly, as she did with me earlier this week. The two of us relaxed on the front porch swing, and she used the thick stick of sidewalk chalk she clutched to jab me in the hand. “Ouch!” I exclaimed. “Don’t hurt Mama. Be gentle.” Immediately, she stopped jabbing, looked up with pursed lips, and made that adorable smacking sound. She was cute enough to wipe away all offense, which is exactly what she wanted to do, and so I scooped her up and smothered her chubby cheeks and delightfully soft skin with unsolicited kisses. What else was I supposed to do?
What did my baby do to her lip?
She’s always bruising her head and busting her lip. She’s fearless and into everything and running full speed ahead. This one is a scar from her toy bus that she was pushing. She fell and it cut her lip. You know…those dangerous preschool toys.
John and I invented “Family Huggies,” where the three of us put our arms around each other and share a family hug. Garrett, in his infinite toddler wisdom, has invented “Family Kissies,” where we share a family hug and then cram our faces into the middle to share one big kiss (lips closed). He also likes to tell me, “Mama, I’m going to kiss your boca!” right before planting a slobbery one on my lips. Those are the best kisses in the world.
[...] months, my wife has experienced the joys that a little kiss from little Ladybug can bring. She’s been a bit reluctant to give her kisses to Daddy, though. I’ve [...]