Cousins

The following conversation took place in the car between Hogan's friend L. and me. We were on our way back from a disastrous wedding event (never take a 2-year old to a wedding, no matter how short and casual the bride claims it will be!). We were babysitting L. for the evening and on our way home.

(The sound of Hogan screaming happily and kicking his feet is resonating through the car. Troy, who is maneuvering through Dallas traffic, is trying not to lose his temper in front of our 4-year old guest L.)

L: Why is Hogan screaming?

Me: Well, he's excited that you're here. He doesn't usually have friends sit in the back with him.

L: Doesn't he have any cousins?

Me: No, Hogan doesn't have any cousins.

L: Well, I could be his cousin (I think this was a desperate attempt to get Hogan to stop screaming).

(L. grabbed Hogan's hand and declared the two of them cousins.)

Hogan liked the idea of being cousins.

Hogan: This is my cousin L. (he has no idea what a cousin is)

L: This is my cousin Hogan.

(Unfortunately, Hogan continued to scream and Troy finally did end up losing his temper- sorry L. I guess since you're family now we can let down our masks!)