Snuggling in bed a few mornings ago Abby was feeling the baby kick.

What was that?

She was kicking you honey, at least I think she was kicking. [probing her own belly] I think this is her head over here, or maybe her little butt. I can’t tell for sure.
[pause...still probing. Abby still feeling the action ]
I can’t tell what part is what honey.

Abby continued to feel the bursting energy within for a while and then very soberly addressed The Mommy.

Mommy. When she comes out we need to make sure we get all her parts out too.

Mom? Remember I said that I want a pet?

Yes honey. You do have pets, you have fish! And pretty soon you will have a baby sister, and that is almost the same thing.

I interjected a few seconds later

You know what she really is? A toy!
It’s a what?
I said, ‘she is really like a really cool toy!’

[brief pause ]

It’s not a toy…IT’S A PET!

[after protracted sucking at the sippy cup]

Abby, that is enough water honey. You don’t want to pee in the bed.

[30 seconds pass after setting it down all the while admiring it's soft orange and blue glow in the early evening half-light, the zoo animals dancing lightly around it's circumfrence. A longing stare. A knowing whisper]

Mmmmm…Sure is good