Money Can't Buy You Love, But M&Ms Sure Can

GiGi and Aunty Mo came to town this weekend. Their visit served as a reminder that, although seldom seen, Elliott does have a shy side. Elliott hadn't seen Aunty Mo since last Christmas and even his sharp memory has trouble bringing memories that distant into focus. As Elliott worked to reconcile a human face with memories and names and snapshots that he could identify Aunty Mo in at first asking, we were exposed to the silent treatment. My first thought was can you move in with us Aunty Mo.  Come to think of it, I don't think I had a second thought.  Such silence is a fantasy when considering Elliott's penchant lately for all night socials.

Aunty Mo also helped us confirm that Elliott can be bought.  For the right price, he will abandon all caution and deliver more hugs, kisses and I love yous than a wedding ceremony.  And his price - a handful of M & M's.  Once these tiny green candies were flowing, Aunty became best friend.  Elliott's willingness to compromise his convictions so quickly and for such limited compensation, satisfying a sweet tooth, has me wondering if the boy isn't built for politics.  Don't get me wrong, the candy was just an effective ice breaker.  Once aunt and nephew were reacquainted, the family ties were much stronger than the bindings of candy.  Of course the new pajamas didn't hurt the cause either.

I believe the candy came with consequences.  Elliott's daycare called me yesterday to inform me that Elliott had thrown up twice and that they would appreciate me coming to get him.  This was only moments after Katie had called to inform me that Ian had a temperature and she was going to have to take him to the doctor.  Elliott was fine last night and went back to school today.  His teacher, who wasn't there in the afternoon when Elliott threw up the second time, was surprised that I had been called.  What I was told was vomit she considered spitting up a little food.  And I have a feeling what she calls spitting up a little food, I call Elliott preferring chocolate over fruits and vegetables.  

The doctor felt like Ian might have an ear infection that was related to the respiratory virus he had last week.  I guess it is not uncommon for ear problems to follow this particular illness.  But he too seems to be doing better today.  The boy is full of grins now.  He was lying on the couch this morning when I came around the corner and caught him looking up at me.  The instant he saw me, he broke into the most joyous smile.  Babies have a way of making you feel like the most important person in the world.  In their lives, I guess we are.

We are very grateful for the opportunity to spend time with Aunty Mo and Gigi this weekend.  Their strategy of leaving Papa Hoss at home to tend to the dogs seemed to work - they definitely had the boys' undivided attention, even when the bag of M&M's was nowhere to be found.  Although they once again spoiled both of them with gifts, Katie and I are most grateful that they helped the boys understand the simply joy of family.