Susie Sunshine

I was talking to a classmate yesterday about the other class she's taking, the topic of which is giftedness. I was telling her about my sister's son and how he's clearly gifted, but it's such a delicate line to heed, recognizing that while not putting pressure on a three year old to do more than he's ready for.

She was telling me about the different theories about where giftedness comes from - how it's genetic, but not hereditary, and how nurture plays such a significant role. In particular, we discussed how much of an effect one's parents' talking, vocabulary, and attitude had.

"Oh, well," I said, "My sister is both a Chatty Kathy and a Susie Sunshine so I'm sure that has a big part to do with why her kids are so bright."

(On a side note, where do I get these terms from and why do I put them together? Chatty Kathy and Susie Sunshine? I sound like I'm 65.)

Yesterday also happened to be my sister's birthday so my dad sent out an email with photos of my sister as a baby, including a couple from the hospital on the day she was born - actual birth day photos for her birthday. Included was this photo:

My sister - smiling ON THE DAY SHE WAS BORN. And this wasn't a fleeting smile, there are others from the same day.  (Aw, and that's my dad holding her. Love it.)

SMILING ON THE DAY SHE WAS BORN. I think that justifies my use of the Chatty Kathy/Susie Sunshine combo.