We had the privilege of babysitting a friend’s little one this afternoon. The kids were so excited! Several days ago I asked Rachel to remind me that we had C. coming over (I’ve been known to forget important things like this in the past).
The children took me serious and started reminding me several times a day. Sarah was the worst, I mean, most helpful. She would tell me over and over that C. was coming over and then proceed to ask me what time would he be here. I’m not sure she really understood the concept of 3 pm. It’s after lunch but not evening. Afternoon? Snack time? Those are interesting but not very descriptive words.
Finally the day and hour and toddler arrived. Daniel and Sarah were his most solicitous fans. Oh, they gathered toys and blankets (in case he might fall over). They brought him books and more toys. They set up an elaborate game with a container full of balls. Basically Daniel would stand behind C. (making sure he didn’t fall) while Sarah handed him super balls. C. would throw them at the chair and the wall and occasionally Sarah. I over heard Daniel say, “Sarah, give him the ball then run out of the way fast!”
Later on it was time to feed the little guy. Again, Daniel and Sarah practically fell over themselves to be helpful. They got him buckled into Sarah’s chair, made sure he had a bib, heated up his food, and then fed him a tasty dinner. It made me realize how big Sarah is and how long it has been since we’ve had a baby in the house. For so long it seemed I was always HAVING babies. The first three are close in age and then came along the younger two. Daniel was a little younger than Sarah is now when David was born. Sarah, however, is the baby of the family and hasn’t ever been the Big Sister, with a little one in her charge. She certainly worked hard today, caring for C.
Notice Sarah’s open mouth. She’s helping, all right. What a good little babysitter.
The kids were a bit chagrined at C.’s insistence that I hold him. They would have been content to take care of him all by themselves. He seemed to realize this and made sure I was nearby at all times. Smart fella.
Thanks for letting us watch him, J. It was a fun afternoon.
Kathy
I’m not ready for teenager girls, yet!
