For someone so young, Esther seems remarkably adept at the art of manipulation. Actually, that's not quite the word I'm looking for, but I'm not sure how else to describe it. What she does is a little more basic, but it involves trying to direct someone's attention in a direction other than herself, so that she can continue pursuing whatever is currently on her mind. Is there a word for that? I have cold and am unable to think clearly.
I remember the first occasion clearly. She had just picked up one of the rabbits, and I had rescued it and explained that she must not pick Daffy up, because she might hurt her. She had considered my words, and returned to feeding them carrots instead. I returned to the stove, preparing our dinner. Ten seconds later, I turned around and saw her, hands already reaching around the rabbit's chest. She glanced up, and her eyes met mine. Without skipping a beat, she smiled, slid her hand up to Daffy's back and stroked her gently. Then she pointed at the stove, and made an innocent suggestion: "Mamma, make dinner."
Now it seems to happen most days. Today, I was kindly reminded to drink my tea so that Esther could wreak havoc on my laptop. Yesterday, she thought I might want to read my book rather than wrestle the mouse out of her little hand and regain control of my PC. And when my mother discovered that someone had been shredding the glittery ornaments on the Christmas tree and asked Esther if it might have been her, my daughter responded by putting an arm around her grandmother's neck, smiling, looking into her eyes and saying "Momi, go back to the kitchen."
Hmmm. I am simultaneously impressed and horrified. I also can't help but think that there's something inherently female about this behaviour, but since I don't have any sons I can't be sure. So far, though, it's mainly quite funny.
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