The other night we went down the street to the local convenience store (OXXO) to get some milk. Nathanael and I went, so that we could have some man-talk time.
Nathanael, as is his custom, walked around the store touching everything that he could get away with touching and speculating on whether or not we needed those chips or that granola bar or this … oops! Don’t touch THAT!
I went to the counter to pay. Convenience store counters in your area are probably much like this one. Placed within easy grab on the front of the counter are chocolate bars, gum, and other types of candy. Nathanael was convinced he needed a package of candy, and so he took it out and told me all about it and placed in on the counter.
As is my custom, I let him know that indeed he did not need the candy. So I taught him how to say “no necesito” - I don’t need (this). So he started saying,”No necesito” while he took out the candy. And placed it on the counter.
No, he didn’t get the candy. (After all, he quite rightly insisted that he “didn’t need it”!)
That night we were eating a delicious turkey casserole. And deviled eggs. He didn’t want his egg, and he smushed it on the table. We told him that he needs to keep food he doesn’t want on his plate, not on the table. He didn’t get the point, telling us that he was done. Then he pushed the egg onto his plate, crying,”¡No necesito!”
I guess he understood more than I thought…
(This is a good thing, right?!)
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Write a Comment»Isn’t it amazing how fast children learn?! Sounds like he’s quite smart for his age - not that you didn’t already know that! I was impressed that you were consistent with him in the store - not something we always see!!
Love and prayers for you all, Aunt Luella.
LOL!
wish my kids were like that!
A video for you challanging spanish speakers to missions . .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MQJpH14qlY
Hey Jim
That’s a great story. I still struggle to picture Nathaniel as the walking/talking type. I see him more as a “baby” type. Crazy how kids grow.
I listened to the youtube link above for a while. It didn’t make sense to me. I’m listening to your last audio blog right now. It’s really is so great to hear your voice. Makes me miss you guys.
Al
What a great story Jim! We’ll have to keep that in mind when as our “bilingual family” grows.
However, my favorite part of the story wasn’t the “no necesito” or the “smushed deviled egg”, it was the fact that you and your little guy went to the store for some “man-talk time”. Those are the truly priceless moments.
Great to hear from you all!
Sorry I haven’ replied earlier, but I have no time when Nathanael is conscious 
It’s something to look forward to, Paul. The father-daughter time is pretty good too! And by the way, your blogs are looking better and better - keep up the great work, brother!