Practice makes perfect

"I love you," coos Little Dog. "But also, I hate you!" he adds quickly.
Then I hear it replay. He's discovered the voice memo function on my iPhone and it enthralls him completely. He listens, adjusts and tries again.

I love you- softer, gentler
But also I hate you- more emphasis on hate, you as more of a hiss

Listens

I love you- sing-songy, sweet, happy sounding
But also, I hate you- brief pause after also, more bile in I hate you

Listens

I love you- almost giggled
But also I hate you- louder and rushed

Listens

I love you- cooing again
But also I hate you- also cooed sweetly

Listens
Listens
Listens
Smiles

It's as though my little boy is already practicing for when he starts dating. He's got it down. It reminds me of the boys I used to adore. Sigh. I'm going to have to fix this.