Brother in the Background

Today I thought a lot about background noise. Since I'm still recovering, I spent most of my day in bed, away from the family. This is not a normal occurance, so the kids didn't really know what they were supposed to do. Occasionally, Jared would sneak in and hang out with me. It was great when we were talking, one-on-one, but more than likely, there was a 2 year old following him around, copying Jared's words and movements.

 Now, that would be frustrating for any person. No one likes someone saying the same thing he does and doing the same thing he does. In fact, most would find it annoying. Add APD into the equation and it sounds something like this:

 Jared: Mommy, what are we doing this afternoon? Is Grandaddy...
Zane: Mommy, what are we doing...
Jared: Shhh. I'm talking to mommy. Mommy, is Grandaddy, is Grandaddy...
Zane: Mommy, is Grandaddy coming?
Jared: Stop talking! I'm talking!
Zane: No you're not. I'm talking.
Jared: No you're not. Mommy, listen! Listen to me!
Me: I'm listening, Jared
Zane: Mommy, what are you doing?
Jared: MOMMY! You're not listening to me!!!

Usually, about this time, the jealous dog comes in and starts barking, which leads to an even more frustrated Jared because he has yet to ask his question. It's quite sad, but it's an every day reality. I'm trying to teach Zane to stop interrupting, so that Jared can talk (and vice versa), but it's probably going to take some time. My 2 year old has a mind of his own. Just check out this picture:

I am blessed with my beautiful boys. I can't think of them without smiling, and often laughing. They crack me up! I know that when Zane quiets down some of his background noise, Jared will also see what a blessing Zane is to him!

He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord. Psalm 113:9 (NIV)