Jukebox?

Jukebox - A coin-operated machine that plays music from a record or compact disc once a selection is made. Originally called nickelodeons, the term jukebox did not appear until the late 1930s and its origins are in dispute. Some believe it is derived from the African word "jook," meaning to dance. Others link it to the juke joints -- roadside bars located in the South that were popular at that time.

So...now that I have caught your attention with a post-title of "Jukebox?", you are probably wondering what in the world this post is about, right?  Well, in a sense, it really isn't about a jukebox at all.  Rather, it is about "Little Man's" first real nickname. Not a nickname given by mom or dad, grandma or grandpa, an aunt, uncle, or cousin.  No, this nickname was one given to "Little Man" by his 3rd grade teacher and his friends at school!

It should come as no surprise to us really, you see...music has always been a huge part of mine and my husband's life.  So much so, that I don't think that I could go a single day without listening to music, or singing a tune -- and by virtue of our love for music, our children have also grown to love it.  The kids are always asking us to "turn on the radio" or "put in a CD," and then once something is actually playing, we hear "turn it UP!"

I love that we are a family that loves music.  Music brings about many wonderful memories from throughout my entire life.  For me, I think it started with my own parents love for music.  I remember signing and dancing at home when I was young -- in the living room, the kitchen, my bedroom, and even out in the driveway.  My husband sang to me when he proposed.  My love for music and dance has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.

So, it really should come as no surprise to me (or my husband!) that our son would be given the nickname "jukebox."  He too loves to sign and, when no one is watching, he'll even bust a move.  He'll sign behind closed doors, and out in public.  He'll sign even when he doesn't realize that he is doing it!  (We were at the gas station the other day, standing in line to check out...when he busted one out.  The lady in front of us smiled, laughed, and then said that she was just listening to the same song in her car.  She complimented "Little Man" on his good singing, and then she was gone -- practically before "Little Man" even knew what had happened).

So when "Little Man" shared his new name with us tonight during supper and we all giggled and laughed -- Jukebox.  So. Appropriate.