Ruthie has many role models in the house. Most are male, one is female, and one is canine. No matter how many spanks on the hand and firm “no”s, Ruthie continues to mimic Molly’s eating and drinking routine. Until today, I have refrained from snapping pictures of her bad habit so as not to encourage it. But today I caved. Here’s how it went.

***silence in the house***

I immediately glance over at Molly’s corner. “Ruth, no.”

“Ruthie, don’t touch Molly’s water. That’s a no-no.”

(waiting for her to walk over to me)…she’s thinking about obeying.

“Yes, that’s Molly’s water. Don’t touch it.”

“Ruth?”

“Oh, Ruth Christine.”