pa-renting

I've been reading Dobson's book Bringing Up Boys. Interesting stuff. Talks about how boys around the age of 3-5 start to figure out they are boys, and not girls like their mother, so they start to identify more with Dad, and try to emulate him. I think John is just starting to get to that stage, perhaps a little later than others, in keeping with some of his delayed stages. So, I hope I can be the Daddy he needs. That's my biggest goal in life, to be a good Dad to John and Hanna.

The book talks about how young children naturally bond with Mother at first. But, poor John didn't even have that. He's been in this streaker stage, where he likes to run around without clothes. That's something kids do too, but at a younger age. Another indication that John has some delays, but is catching up.

Hanna at least had a mother at the start, though it was not ideal obviously. She was affected too, though, by her experience, and we see that in some things. At times she seems to react with shame. It's our job to keep reassuring her, to help her understand that she is worthy and loved.

Hanna wanted to take along 4 stuffed animals this morning in the truck as we went to Sue's house. John took along Dumbo, so we had all kinds of extra passengers.

Here's an interesting article on a conversation with XM's CEO.