Where Babies Come From

Recently my sister and her two boys came out to Utah. We had a lot of fun. We camped in Heber for my Dad's family reunion and Michelle and the boys stayed with us for a couple days to take advantage of our city's annual summer festival, complete with a carnival, parade, and fireworks.

At just under 1 year, Matthew was unable to appreciate most of the festivities, but he did test out our newly furnished nursery. We're glad to report that our baby's crib can safely accommodate a sleeping baby without major mishap. He also was happy to show off his new walking skills for us and demonstrate that the rest of our home is nowhere near baby proof yet (luckily nothing was damaged though).

Brian, age 4, on the other hand loved everything although I think the carnival rides were his favorite. He also was very fascinated by the idea that Aunt Angela has a baby in her tummy. For the rest of their trip he barraged me with questions about his little baby cousin. One such conversation went somewhat like this:

"Aunt Angela, do you have a baby in your tummy?"
"Yes, Brian."
"Is it a baby boy cousin?"
"Yes, he will be your cousin."
"Is the baby going to come out?"
"Yes, in December."
"Where will he come out?"
"Um... "
"Is he going to come out at the hospital?"
"Oh yeah. That's where. Babies come out at the hospital (whew!)"

It just makes me wonder just how many parents jump into long explanations of where babies come from when their kids are really asking something much simpler. I've always said with my own kids I'll be honest and straightforward when the dreaded questions come, without any confusing stories about storks or birds and bees, but only after I'm darn sure what it is they want to know.