“Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.” -Charles Caleb Colton

Babies love to copy us. If you blow raspberries at a four month old long enough, chances are, they’ll try their best to do it back.

You make faces in hopes for a mirrored expression.

You repeat “mama” fifty times per hour.

You’re with them more than anybody else, why shouldn’t your name be their first word?

These little experiences never get old. You curse yourself for not having your phone at the ready every second of the day to get every adorable moment they copy you on film.

Because, God forbid, your friends on Facebook miss the first time baby blew a spit bubble while attempting a raspberry. (Don’t worry, I got that one posted.)

When your darling little offspring get a bit older, however, things tend to change.

They copy you, alright.

They use the same tone, the same words, and the same irritated face expressions.

Because once they hit two, nothing gets by them.

I didn’t realize how condescending I was until my daughter started using my exact phrases. And tone. And “look.”It’s irritating not only because she’s so patronizing, but also because it’s a reminder that I need to reevaluate how I act.

So. Here’s to seeing ourself how others see us, and to being given the opportunity to change accordingly.

I just hope the kid catches on.How about you, do you have a little mimic?