When I Grow Up

Today I went to pick up Ella from school and found her on the ground surrounded by 3 of her preschool teachers. She was actually in the flower bed, not the ground, per se. Apparently she had spotted a few very large worms and in typical Ella fashion proceeded to retrieve them.

Ella has always been fascinated with "creatures." Frogs fascinate her, especially those that wander helplessly into the swimming pool. They instantly become pets--until she drowns them while swimming.

So as she gets into the car (I am waiting with a bottle of germ-x and wipes) Mrs. Beth says "Hey, Ella! Maybe you will be a veterinarian when you grow up." So began the conversation:

Ella- "Mommy, I think I will be a veterinarian when I grow up."
Me - "I think that would be wonderful."
Ella- "Well, I think you will have to help me. You know--my nose gets yucky sometimes--when I'm around cats."
Me- "Ok. I will help you."
Ella " You will have to make sure I take my medicine before I go to work."

Just when I think the conversation is over, it only gets better.

Ella "Mommy, you will have to be my helper. You can work in the front while I see the other patients."
Me "Oh! So you want me to be the nurse."
Ella "When it rains you will have to bring the outside animals inside so they don't get wet. That is what you will do when I am working."
Me "Ok. I will make sure I do that."
Ella "Well, we will need to live on a farm so we can see the animals better. You better build me a house by you."
Me "Ok, baby. I will help you and live by you."
Ella "Well, what are you going to do with Lucy and Daddy?"
Me "I suppose they will live with us on the farm. "
Ella "Is it a nap day?"

And the conversation changes. Just like that. Apparently all she needed to hear was that Mommy and Daddy weren't going anywhere and that we would help her no matter what she did.

And it's true. That's all our babies need. To know that we are here and support them in all they do. That's our job. That is why I was born.