August 31, 2008 by Barbara.

You know the commercials where the inept father is responsible for his kids and ends up: (a) taking them to a fast food restaurant; (b) feeding them something prepared from frozen; or (c) make a mess of the kitchen and requiring an amazing new cleaning product. Often in the course of the commercial, one of the kids mentions that the mom doesn’t do things in a certain way or that point is made without words. Ken always said that his answer would be - in an ominous tone - “I’m not Mom.” (Or maybe those commercials aren’t on any more. Since we’ve had our pvr, we fast forward through the commercials.)

In any case, lately I’ve had my shortcomings in any comparison with Ken pointed out. The conversations go something like this:

Me: Reid, be careful. The waffle iron it too hot for you to touch it.
Reid: It’s not too hot for Daddy to touch.
Me: Yes, it is. Daddy would have to be careful, too.
Reid: You have to be really careful but Daddy has to be only a little bit careful.

Variations have occurred over ability to reach things on high shelves, find places we’ve never been to, time taken to complete a given task. I never come out in the most favourable light.

Reid’s new favourite song is, not surprisingly, Super Dad by Peanut Butter and Jam.

It’s rough on a Mama’s ego, being so thoroughly displaced ;+)

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August 31, 2008 by Barbara.

Happy birthday Brianna! You were on my mind often yesterday but, unfortunately, not on my fingertips. Reid and I are having on last staycation of the summer and yesterday was a busy day. Here are a few thoughts for you on your birthday:

* I remember your mom being pregnant with you. I don’t remember Aunt Marie being pregnant with Melissa or Sari (Sorry, girls, my memory is awful and I *was* really young.) I anticipated your arrival a great deal and, I have to say, you were well worth the wait.
* You are the first child I recall being breastfed. At the time, I thought it was sweet and a bit yucky at times but once I had Reid, I was so glad that you had showed me that babies love and need breastmilk and that it is normal.
* I remember sleeping with my hand on your back while you slept in your crib while I was babysitting. I didn’t want anything to happen to you while I was in charge. Okay, in charge perhaps overstates the case but I was watching over you.
* I felt that same sense of responsibility when you came to live with us to attend Carleton. I hope you didn’t feel so closely watched, though, I did remind myself that you had grown a bit over the years. If ever you need me, I can still watch over you. Or a little baby you might have (no pressure, I am just saying “if ever…”)
* I enjoyed having the 8 months together when you lived in Ottawa. We are kindred spirits, I think. Except for the engineering. I don’t understand that stuff at all! Still, we spent lots of hours shopping, crocheting, knitting and being together and they were good hours.
* I like how our hair ends up at the same length or style quite often with no coordination. It makes me think that we have some link. The question I am left with, though, is are we in style together or just in the same style? ;+)
* I think that you have amazing self-confidence. Returning to high school to radically change your education and work paths took a lot of determination. Bravo for you.
* I like how you look after your siblings, even when they don’t think that your assistance is required. I think that is what big sisters are supposed to do.
* I like that you chose my anniversary to be married on. Now you will always remember to mention the upcoming joyous occasion and I, in turn, will remember to get a card and present for Ken. Really, not all nieces would be that thoughtful. You really do go above and beyond.
* Choosing a man with relatives in Ottawa was wise and full of foresight. Who knew all of those years ago when you picked George up (it sounded a bit like stalking in Chantelle’s wedding speech but who is to say) that it would work out so well?

Happy birthday, Brianna. I hope that this is a fabulous year for you.

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