Spanking

So, Ephiny and I don't actually do spanking. We DO do time-outs, which seems to be regarded as "the new spanking" by many people we know, but we really and truly don't spank. Ever.

Someone else in our family does, though, and he is the littlest (just barely) member, though not if you go by head circumference.

Rip, yes. In pretty much all his moods, lately. He is increasingly vocal, too, but the primary mode of expression is currently spanking the person holding him or any surfaces within his reach.

Happy? Whack whack whack!
Angry? Whack whack whack!! WHACK!
Hungry? WHACK! WHACK!
Eating at the table? WHACK! Whack! Whack whack whack!
Breastfeeding? Whack whack! Whack! Pinch! Gouge! Whack!
Excited? WHACK! WHACK!
Surprised? Whack!
Wanting that toy? Whack!!
Shy? Flirtatious smile, hidden face, then, when you least expect it, WHACK! WHACK! WHACK!
Tired? Going to sleep? Whack whack whack whack whack. (Rhythmically.)

Perhaps someday Rip can find someone who will take on this treatment consensually. Alas, we are not those people. We are excited for him to learn how to use his words, though!