Proust (ish) Questionnaire with a 10 Year-Old

My girl turned 10 years old today. It’s a pretty big deal. I decided to mark the occasion by interviewing her to preserve her thoughts on this day. She was a bit distracted, having had a sleepover with 2 besties last night. The interview was conducted while she braided one of her friends’ hair.

What’s your name?

Robert Gabeezopopper.

What day is today?

Saturday.

And what else?

It’s my birthday.

What’s your favourite food?

You-tiao [fried dough sticks]

Really?

Yeah. And green onion pancake.

What’s your favourite song?

“Oh Yeah” by Yello.

What characteristics do you have?

I have no idea what that means.

Like, if someone were to say, that Nico girl, what’s she like, what would they say?

Grace: Joel would say she’s weird.

Nico: Yes, he would. I dunno. I guess funny, artsy, I can’t think of a third one.

What characteristics do you like in your friends?

Goofy, not annoying, and not girly.

What are you afraid of?

Snakes. I hate snakes they’re so creepy. How does someone move without legs?

Anything else?

Frogs.

What about something like a concept, not a thing?

What do you mean?

Like…death. Are you afraid of death?

Nope.

If you could go back in time and give a message to your 5 year-old self, what would it be?

(Solemnly) Prepare yourself.

What are you looking forward to today? This week? This year?

Presents. Not camp. Walking home from school on my own.

Any final thoughts about turning 10?

I get to go to the swimming pool now by myself too.