Finger-Licking Becomes Boy's Fine Art

Micah has discovered something far more exciting than a pacifier—his hands.

He cups them together and brings them to his mouth as though he's about to call for fowl on a duck-hunting expedition. But instead of a reedy whistle, the resulting effect is a wet smacking noise.

Our son debuted this fine art at home and has since offered impromptu recitals at worship services and other public gatherings.

The silence that follows is the sound of his parents beaming with, er, pride.

This week, he further perfected the concept of trying to fit a fist in his maw when he learned that groupings of fingers (middle and ring, for example) accomplish the same purpose.

So Julie and I are trying our best to laugh at his antics and to appreciate the fact that his finger fancy helps sooth him when he's fussy.

They say it's harder to take away fingers than a pacifier, so we're also trying to subtly brainwash him by inserting the latter into his mouth at opportune times.

The rest is up to fate. And fingers.