My daughter Julia came to live with me two years ago for school. It isn't easy for me to raise someone who is practically my nine-year-old clone, but that is exactly what I find I am doing with Julia. Through our judo and soccer practices, reading, writing and arithmetic, Girl Scouts, and Japanese language classes, we occasionally have a conversation that connects us both in a sometimes deep and usually humorous way. Hopefully, you will be as entertained as we are.

A Bet

Daddy has a habit of talking to himself which he one day figured would become an issue when Julia got older. Julia got older…

Julia: Daddy, you know how you talk to yourself? 

Daddy: Well, yea, sorry; it’s sort of a genetic thing. My mom talks to herself aloud. I think one of her family members did it. I do it too. Actually, I more scream at myself than talk. I’m sorry; does it embarrass you?

Julia: Well, I’m thinking maybe we can do something to change that… Remember how last year you would buy me a Japanese eraser if you did not catch me playing with my hair or fingers… How about if we do the same to you?

Daddy: …so, if you catch me speaking aloud to myself three times, I have to buy you an eraser?

Julia: Um…. yea!

Daddy: Perfect!    

(five minutes later - Daddy sees a billboard)

Daddy: Hmmm. “Home mortgages at the lowest price.”

Julia: Strike 1!

Daddy: Doh!