Eli, who is 4 years old (5 in May) is a very perceptive boy. He takes note of a lot that goes on around him, and of what is said.
He is apparently very aware of my gestational diabetes, because while eating some candy yesterday, he informed me, “This is very bad for you huh mom?” To which I sadly nodded yes. To which he added, “And my ice cream yesterday, when you took a bite, that was REALLY bad for you.” To which I further nodded in affirmation. And then he cheerfully added, “But once the baby is here you can have it all!” To which I joyfully agreed.
Lucy, also, is very attentive to what is happening around her. The girl can’t help but be obsessed with babies and baby care as we are running a residential program for vulnerable pregnant women with services lasting through the babies first 4 months. At any given moment, Lucy is able to go to the women’s dormitory or classroom and have her pick of beautiful babies to look at and touch. She herself carries her un-named Corolle baby with her EVERYWHERE. Along with all of the necessary baby paraphernalia. Extra changes of clothes, bottles, toys, pacis, diapers (swiped from my one pack of newborn disposables). She is very aware of OUR baby though, and reminds me throughout the day to be saving things for it, for when it comes. Hair barettes, pairs of socks, used diapers, left-over cereal, outgrown clothing, colored pictures, dropped malaria pills, you name it. She is a very thoughtful, and planful little girl. I appreciate that about her.
Last night, when the baby was in an awkward position and giving me a cramp, and I complained of it, Lucy exclaimed, “Well, then you better go to the doctor and tell her to take her out so you can feel better!” Good idea Lucy. I like your style. But then again, this is the little girl who wants me to keep my shirt up all of the time so her little sister can see out of my tummy. Like my shirt is the window shade preventing this little girl from “seeing the world”. Oh my.
Playing "baby" together. I love these kids!