Lauren, by Kathy Williams, July 2002

Lately, the phrase, "Education is a dangerous thing." has been popping into my head on a regular basis. If you knew my granddaughter Lauren, you would understand why.

At two and a half, Lauren learned her colors. Oh, we were so proud. She would go around saying, "That's green Grammy." or "Dah Dah, look at the orange ball." We thought she was a genus. Not only is she cute, she's gifted. Boy were we stupid!

Yeah, she could identify all the colors and what was cute became annoying. At age three, Lauren apparently decided to use this new found knowledge to her best advantage. Getting her dressed for any occasion was a nightmare. "No! I don't want to wear the yellow dress. I don't like yellow! I like purple! I can't wear those blue tennis shoes, they don't match my shorts! I want the white ones! That ribbon is yucky! Give me the pink one!"

Okay, we know, she's well loved (spoiled). As grandparents, we can't admit that. So, we some times use the phrase" Lauren is a determined little girl." or "Lauren has a mind of her own." What was really happening was Grammy and Dah Dah were being pushed around by a three year old. Hey, we do what we must just to survive! Anything to get her clothes on so we can get out of the door. If Lauren wants the purple bow, Lauren can have the purple bow.

My daughter on the other hand thinks her mom and dad are whimps. Michele .uses the old fashion approach, spankings. "Sure, take the easy way out." I tell her. She laughs and says, "That right. At least I'm not the one letting a three year old boss me.

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