Gum

Many of you know of Katie's HUGE fear/phobia of gum. She has an amazing sense if someone is chewing gum vs. food or candy. She refuses to look at people while they are chewing gum, often times requesting to be held so she can bury her head into your shoulder. And...beware if you blow a bubble. The poor kid hyperventilates, turns bright red, and starts to sweat!

Delaney got a little gumball machine from a friend from school for a Christmas present. She was very excited about it until she realized what it was (even though I told her we could fill it with skittles instead). She's so wonderfully protective of her sister. Because of Katie's fear, Delaney has developed a strong dislike for gum, and can't stand the taste or smell of peppermint (the smell she associates with gum).

Well, the night she got the present, Pete dared to try it out...he talked to them about gum, explained how you can only chew it, don't swallow it, and need to spit it out in the garbage after a while. Not sure exactly how he managed to get EITHER to try it...they both did. And, Katie went first. So, now Delaney will tell you that chewing gum is her "favorite." I haven't chewed gum in front of Kate since this, but it would be interesting to try it out and see her reaction.

Here are pics of them showing off their gum...