Mark of Fridays: Big Bruyyer

Mark has spent most of the last few weeks adjusting to being a Big Bruyyer (his pronunciation).  So far, he's learned that he has to share mom and dad's attention.  This has been a big big adjustment for a kid who's grown used to being the center of everyone's universe.

"What if Anne and I need something at the same time?"  he asks.

We tell him that whoever's needs are more important will come first.  If Anne has a dirty diaper and you want to hear a story, Anne is first.  If you are hungry and Anne wants a snuggle, then you're first.

As a result of this conversation, Mark has become quite good at turning every request into an impending crisis.  Suddenly, there is a lot of yelling and crying in our house.

But, he has also learned to share willingly with his new little sister.  Although the picture on the right  sort-of looks like Mommy Elmo is giving Anne a surprise tackle, Mark actually put her there to give Anne a lovie at bedtime.  Quite a gesture from the little guy, we thought.... as long as Mommy Elmo's crusted-on dirt didn't get too close to Anne's mouth.

Mark has also learned that big brothers also have to help mom and dad a lot.  He fetches diapers, binkies, and even tries to instruct our guests in what Anne might need.

The other night, we even convinced Mark that he is SUCH a good big brother that he could even try holding his new sister.  He handled her like a champ, and she didn't even cry.

The result:  what Matt says is his new best-ever lifetime moment.

"Mark" of Fridays: Sweetie

Just in case our previous posts weren't clear enough, yep, we are having another one!
Child II is due in late January. So, technically, this picture isn't of Mark, but not everything is about Mark anymore, is it? (Won't he be surprised!)

If you look on the far left, you will see that this baby is a GE product.
Patent pending.