My soon-to-be eighteen-month-old grandson has just learnt one of the most powerful words a toddler can arm themselves with – ‘more‘. It’s the one and only time in his life that saying ‘more’ without structuring it into a polite sentence is acceptable – he’s too young to say ‘please can I have some more?’ And he hasn’t quite mastered the knack of stringing two words together, so ‘more’ or rather ‘maw’ and a theatrical pointing of the hand is ok (by his grandma’s standards anyway!)
Having had overnight babysitting duties on Friday, I woke to the smells of toast and the sounds of The Chippy (Dad) and Leo stuck into the first meal of the day – toast and banana. Leo was eating with some urgency – he’s a hungry boy first thing.
Those of you who have been following the Wombat for some time will know I’m a fan of porridge and this day was no exception as I prepared my breakfast. Flossy (Mum) had joined us and pointed out that Leo would be wanting some of that too so I duly made enough for a little bowl on the side – to suit the appetite of a toddler who has already eaten toast and banana – a couple of spoonfuls off the top you would think.
Porridge was made and a little bowl set aside to cool (yes, I know what you’re thinking – Goldilocks any moment). I even sprinkled cinnamon over the top – it’s a must. Mum provided us with spoons and we were off! But who needs to use a spoon when you have been gifted with beautiful large carpenter in the making hands? Not Leo! Using his hands was a fully immersive experience. He finished his little bowl of porridge way before me(I use a spoon), leaned across his highchair table waving a porridgy fist in my direction and practised his brand new word – ‘more’!
That was the magic word and all that was needed to muster a refill – my portion just reduced significantly. Enjoy it while you can Leo – your parents are hot on your heels with ‘please’ and ‘ta’.
Waking the Wombat 