NOT Barbies

C: I like to play Kens, but NOT Barbies. I like to play them because they are like overgrown action figures, but you can actually dress them up, unlike action figures.

I like to dress my Kens up in interesting clothes, like shorts and pants and jackets and shirts and shoes and stuff. Actually, Ken shoes are kind of rare.

K: I think Barbies are cool, too. I have all of these sets, and I even have a pool that I got from my grandma's. When I play with my brother, we make our Barbies dress up and go to Rodeos and Ball Games.

Mom: What do they do when they go to the ball game?

C: They watch, and cheer. . .

K: . . . and have some beer!

Mom: Really?

C: Yes.

Mom: Why did you draw a beard on that Ken?

C: Because I wanted him to look like Captain Haddock [from Tintin].

Mom: Why do you call him Mark?

C: Because that's what I like his name to be.

Mom: But I thought his name was Captain Haddock.

C: But, it is really Mark.

Mom: I don't get it.

C: Because I like his name to be Mark. He wears a bandolier that carries his tools, and simulates an "X". He also wears a blue shirt, and a silver coat, and black pants and blue shoes.

Mom: Where did you come up with the name Mark?

C: I just thought, "Hey, Mark is a good name. And, I have a cousin named Mark."

Mom: Is he named after your cousin?

C: Yes. He has the name of my cousin, but the clothes and beard of Captain Haddock.

Mom: Should we put a picture of him on the blog?

C: Nah.

Mom: Come 'on, please?

C: You have to put it on yourself.