A conversation with my 2-year-old

The 2-year-old is at the stage where she repeats herself incessantly. She’ll ask the same question over and over again, even if you answer it every time she asks. Or she’ll make the same statement on repeat, like she’s a broken record, until my head explodes. I remember the older two kids going through this phase when they were her age. Even though I know it’s only a phase, it can still be maddening to talk to a person who is incapable of reason and has their mind set on one thing and one thing only. It can also lead to some pretty mind-bending conversations when the person you’re engaging is 2 and is dead set on a single answer.
Recently, as we were leaving swim lessons, I announced that we were going to Taco Bell for dinner and asked what the girls wanted—a taco or a quesadilla. The 6-year-old replied that she wanted three tacos.
Me: Great, three tacos, you got it. Kid No. 3, what would you like? A taco or a quesadilla?
2-year-old: I want three.
Me: Do you want a taco or a quesadilla?
2-year-old: I want three.
Me: But that’s not what I’m asking. I’m asking if you want a taco or a quesadilla.
2-year-old: Three.
Me: No. Listen to the question, please. Do you want a taco or a quesadilla to eat for dinner?
2-year-old: I only want three.
Me: KID NO. 3! Taco or quesadilla?
2-year-old: I WANT THREE!
Me: I understand that you want three. What I need you to tell me is if you’d rather have a quesadilla or a taco.
2-year-old: Three.
Me: DEAR LORD, CHILD!
2-year-old: MOMMY! I NEED THREE!
Me: Head explodes.
2-year-old: I want three.
Me: You want three of what?!?
2-year-old: Three! OF FOOD!
Me: OK. You can have three of food. Do you want three tacos or three quesadillas?
2-year-old: Three, please. I want.
Me: Fine. You’re getting three quesadillas.