Copycat

These days, Caitlin spends most of her days mimicking the actions of those around her. She spent about 19 months of her life quietly observing her surroundings. In the past month or so, Caitlin has moved from quietly observing to actively copying. Last Thursday night, Caitlin played with her stacking cups while taking a bath. As she repeatedly drank dirty bathwater from her green stacking cup, Caitlin began saying, "Mmmmm, coffee!" and "Hot!" After watching Mama drink a cup of coffee or two most every morning, apparently Caitlin now drinks coffee as well. I worry she will soon say, "Mmmmm, wine!" Note to self: wait until after bedtime to pour out a glass of Pinot Noir.

Caitlin also enjoys packing a purse, grabbing car keys, and heading out for work. Although Caitlin has play purses of her own, she prefers to use Mama's special Kate Spade bag. Caitlin slings the bag over her shoulder, grabs a set of car keys, asks for her coat, and heads toward the basement door calling, "Bye-bye!" When asked if she is going to work, Caitlin will grin and give an enthusiastic, "Yeah!!" as though leaving for work is really that much fun.

My little copycat is also beginning to repeat everything she hears. From time to time, Caitlin and I plug in my iPod and have dance parties in the living room. One of our favorite dance tunes is Cee Lo Green's inappropriately titled, "F*#k You." Despite the song's vulgar name, the lyrics and tune are super catchy. Since Caitlin and I only danced to this song a handful of times, I did not think much of the swear words becoming part of her vernacular. Last week as Caitlin and I drove to day care, Cee Lo's radio-edited version named "Forget You" came on the radio. As soon as the opening notes played, Caitlin sat upright in her car seat and yelled, "DUCK YOU!!!" Clearly, she meant to say something else, but her still developing articulation prevented the necessary sounds from coming out. Great. Now my daughter not only has a caffeine addiction, but also swears like a sailor. At least she likes going to work, although I don't think she observes that behavior from her Mama. I've created a copycat monster. It's time to start being a bit more careful with my behavior and my words. Somebody is watching.