How many kisses?

Evan and I have developed a routine this summer at bedtime. I used to give him one kiss after books then I turned off the light. If memory serves me, one evening I missed his mouth when giving him a kiss, so I had to give him one more. The next night he needed two kisses.

The routine continued for weeks. We would read our two books. I would put him to bed with his stuffed animals and blanket, then I would ask, "How many kisses?" He would always respond, "Two." I would deliver the kisses and be out the door.

One night he was displeased about having to go to bed, so as a way to distract him, I asked the question, "How many kisses tonight? Two or Eight?" He beamed at the variety, and of course, he chose eight.

From there it has just steamrolled. Each night I ask Evan the same question, but now when I ask it, he responds with a "Hmm. . . ." and an impish grin, reflecting on how far he can push this charade. When I receive his response, he now counts the kisses while I am kissing him instead of pursing his lips to return my hen-peck kisses. He radiates this huge smile while counting.

This week, he is taking the kiss request to new levels. We have now ventured into the teens with his response. The last few nights, I am giving at least fourteen kisses an evening. He smugly smiles and counts still as I give my kisses.

I suppose it could be worse. He is now getting both a routine that I hope he will remember in future years as well as a top-notch counting lesson each night. We will see how high the "How many kisses?" request will be someday. I am hoping to get at least one kiss a night for a long time.