a conversation with girls.

Here’s a conversation with the little girl I tutor and her friend, who are both fourth graders.

Harmony: Why don’t you take your coat off? I want to see your dress.
Tess: Why do you need to see my dress in order to get your homework done?
H: Because it’s NOT FAIR! … [flings my cape-like coat open and gasps] Oh my…..when did it get like this?
T: Haha, you haven’t seen my belly in a while. It’s been growing the whole time.
H: Jasmine, look!
Jasmine: Oh my God! Who’s your boyfriend?
T: I know it’s unorthodox, but I have a husband. His name is Dan.
H: HAY EVERYBODY, look at her belly! How come I didn’t notice this last week?
T: I wasn’t here last week.
H: Why didn’t you come last week?
T: I had to work.
H: You shouldn’t have to work while you’re pregnant. Your husband should take care of it.
T: Well that’s just not how it works in my family. We all have to work. And by the way I think your mom works very hard whether she’s pregnant or not to take care of your family.
H: No she does not! [pauses] Why do you always wear your coat?
T: It’s cold outside and when I get here I just leave my coat on.
H: You WALK here? You shouldn’t do that while you’re pregnant.
T: I live 3 blocks away and it would be silly not to walk. You walk here every week.
H: Yeah but your husband needs to get you a car or something.
T: [sigh]
H: Is that your wedding ring? Which one is your wedding ring and which one is your engagement ring?
T: This one is my engagement ring.
H: My mom has a big diamond ring, except it’s so big when she lifts up her hand it falls over like this. [shows me]
T: That sounds wonderful. Now can you get your book out please so we can read?