We walked home from school today. The crossing guard, bubbling over with enthusiasm complemented me on my hat, and Sam on his silly monster rain boots. Sam looked up at her from his seat in the stroller and this is the conversation that ensued:

Sam: What's yer name?

Crossing guard: Roseanne, well Rosie (broadly smiling)

Sam: My name is Sam (wide eyed)

Crossing Guard: Very nice to meet you Sam. Very nice to meet you.

Rosie the Crossing Guard: That is an easy one to remember! My ex husbands name was Sam (very jovial). Don't tell me your name is Dennis!

Alex: No, my name is Alex. Why? (looking confused)

Rosie the crossing guard: Well, Dennis was my other ex husband. I have had 3 husbands! Ha ha! Not something I recommend, really not something I recommend.

Some people just don't learn! ha ha ha

Alex: What does ex mean?

Me:  um well....

Rosie: It means I am not married to him anymore!

Alex: Why?

Rosie: Because he hit me, that's why- (still smiling). Not good... not good. Some people can't handle their anger!

We are crossing the street and silent now as she holds up her stop sign and escorts us across the street.

Rosie: Oh well, you have a good day now!

Me: You too, have a good day.

We are across the street, just me and my boys now, out of the crosswalk and moving toward home on a gray cold Marin County day.

Alex: Why did he hit her?

Me: Because he was not able to use his words so he hit.

Alex: I will never hit

Me: I am so glad to hear that Alex

Sam: Me EITHER! I won't hit!

Me: I am glad to hear that Sam

Alex: You only had to marry once, right mom?

Me: Yes Alex, that is right