Lost in Translation

Island dialogue features fascinating linguistic terminology, as I have alluded to previously. Much to my amusement, children are often referred to as “keiki” (pronounced “kee-kee”); You can purchase a “keiki meal” or attend the “keiki carnival” or find a “keiki boutique”. Yet, as often as I hear this referenced or observe it in print, I cannot divorce the close similarity to the word “Kinky” and mentally, it translates as “Kinky Sunday School” or “Kinky dance class” or “Kinky parents.” None of which is good.

Not one to allow my internal linguistic translation to stand in the way of an over-scheduled childhood, we enrolled our daughter in a Keiki Ballet and Tap class. Equipped with my Canon and excessive exuberance, I was fully prepared to remain in the rehearsal room while Eowyn pirouetted her way to the American dream. However, she (not gently) urged my departure. Plus, there was Caid, who is never one to let a sentimental moment go unspoiled. Screaming “No” and kicking violently, he was crane-lifted by his overall suspenders out of the theater just as the kinky keiki ballet class commenced.

** Eowyn credits her artistic inspiration for costume design and amateur technique to Angelina the Ballerina.