When I Grow Up

Parker's t-rex painting he made at school.  He was particularly proud that his teacher did not know how to spell "paleontologist" and had to look up the correct spelling. 

Parker and Ryder both have very specific career goals laid out for themselves.  

Parker made the very huge decision about a year and a half ago (seriously, it was huge to him) of changing what he wants to be.  At age 2 and 3, he would tell you matter of factly that he was going to be a train master when he grew up.  Right around his fourth birthday, Parker became crazy about dinosaurs.  He then decided that he wants to be a paleontologist when he grows up and dig up dinosaur bones.  He still has this goal, with the addition of being an Oklahoma State football player while in college.

Ryder has a very different, yet equally ambitious set of goals.  As he has always been the silly guy who tries to make us laugh, I referred to him once as a comedian.  He asked what "comedian," meant.  When I explained it, he decided that is what he wants to be when he grows up.  NOT a paleontologist.  

While on our road trip a few weeks ago, we drove through College Station, Texas.  I excitedly told the boys, "Look!  There's Texas A&M!  That's where Pop went  to school!  You can go there too if you want when you go to college."  Parker was quick to say, "I'm going to OSU, Mommy!"  I told him that was great and he could go to any college he wanted.  Ryder simply announced, "I'm not going to college!"  

Sigh........