story time

My oldest sister came over for a visit this afternoon. The Little Dude continues to be croup-y and unhappy and only placated by lots of lego playing time with Hubs, but the Baby was very happy to see Auntie Gwen. Auntie Gwen mostly wanted to read her book, but the Baby had other plans. First he found himself his favourite farm-machinery related book, and then he clambered up on the couch and wedged himself into the little spot between her and the arm of the couch.

Then he proceeded to read his book alongside her. All the while pointing out items of interest and chattering and squealing away in a bid for her attention.  When this didn't work he switched it up with an entirely different book, though this also on the subject of tractors. This one had little doors to open. That seemed to get her attention. Clever Baby. 

Soon they were opening little doors together in search of an elusive chicken. Then the Baby knew he had her right where he wanted her. 

There was a search for new and more varied tractor related material, and a quick seat change (better light over here).

And then he had Auntie Gwen all to himeself, reading aloud from his favourite tractor catalogue. 

Thorough literalist that she is, Auntie Gwen read him every word of copy in that catalogue. ("Behind every Massey Fergusson emblem is an unbeatable combinations of industry-leaading technology, proven reliability and equipment solutions that make you more productive and more profitable. It also represent one of the most complete lines of agricultural equipment...."etc). I usually just paraphrase and talk about the pictures. 

Finally, he switched it up and went with a book about his other favourite topic - babies and the faces they make. 

I think its fair to say that Auntie Gwen enjoyed this one better. (She's not quite as interested in tractors as he is, but they share a fondness for babies).

Now aside from the heartwarming 'my sister reading to my baby and my baby enjoying it' aspect of these pictures, I have to say, that they mean just a little bit more to me than that. 

When my oldest sister was very small, she was diagnosed as being developmentally delayed. Or "mentally handicapped" as they used to call it. "Retarded" was what the mean kids on the bus said. When my parents were informed of this fact by a startlingly unsensitive doctor, they were told that she'd never read more than "Men's" and "Lady's" on the bathroom door. But due to the dilligence and effort of my parents (my mother was a trained school teacher and not a bit of that training went to waste) that unfortunate doctor was proven quite wrong. 

Because reading books and books and more books is one of my sister's favourite pastimes now. And how very, very sweet it is to see her sharing that joy with my son.

 

Comments

[Cynthia]

Beautiful in every way!!!!!! That melts my heart!!!!! And I think its safe to say that a love of books and reading is a genetically endowed trait :) (along with red hair) love to all of you, Cyn

[Leni]

"We were so touched by this---brought tears to our eyes.And how
thrilled she was to have this time with him!
Looking back it was , at times, a difficult road, but how blessed we are
in the gifts she has developed---above all, her great love for family."

[Sara]

Just beautiful,Andrea,You see the beauty in simplicity, what a gift you have!!!
With love.. Aunt Sara V.L.!

[finger thumb]

Thanks for the lovely comments, all of you. This is one of those posts that I know will not mean alot to many people, but to those few that know our little family, it will mean much.