Smalentines and Smencils

Little Loverboy

{circa Valentine's 2005 :: age 15 months}

I do not want to exploit matters of the heart for my big boy,
but my Thomas has been hit by cupid's arrow.

His school is selling Smencils for a dollar and Smalentines for $2.
He asked if he could take some of his money to buy some.
Hmmm.

{Last night before bedtime}

Me :: Sure, it's your money.  How much are you taking?
Thomas :: $5, for two Smalentines and one Smencil.
I'm getting you a Smalentine for your birthday mom.
And I'm getting myself a Smalentine and Smencil.

Me :: Oh that's sweet son, but you don't have to do that.
Thomas :: I want to.

Me :: Is there anyone else at school you want to give a Smencil or Smalentine to?
Like if you had to give one to someone in your class, who would it be?
{in my typical fashion of not giving the kid room or space to answer}
Avery? Alexandria? Elizabeth? Madison?

Thomas :: Alyssa
Me :: Oh, the little Chinese girl?
Thomas :: Uh, Mom....she's Japanese.
Me :: Oh, Buddy, my bad. What do you like about her?

Thomas :: She is really nice. She is really smart. She's in my same reading group.
Me :: Oh, those are really good qualities to like in someone.  I think she's really cute too.
Thomas :: {Blushes}

Me :: Well are you wanting to buy Alyssa a Smalentine or Smencil?
Thomas :: {spells out} N.O.


{This morning on our way out the door to school}

Thomas :: {Gets one more dollar out of his wallet.}

Me :: {smiling, choking back tears} {proud of Chief Tender Heart}

All morning long I've been singing "Glory of Love"




And thinking about Thomas and Alyssa

This morning a son's heart is soaring as he gives away a Smencil.
And a mother's heart is breaking.