Do you have a favorite child?

January 31, 2012
Jeff is always giving me a hard time about my inconsistent parenting because he says I'm smitten with Cole and would let him get away with anything. While that was probably true up until Cole turned 18 months and turned into a pint-sized Hellion, I can assure you all the "smitten-ness" I have with those bright blue eyes, blonde hair, and dimples is wearing off. Really fast.

I fully admit that for most of the last year and half, it was a lot easier to love Cole than it was Pearl. Let me explain. Holding a tiny baby (who you know will stop crying if you just stick a boob in it's mouth) is a lot more easy and enjoyable than trying to figure out what to do with a spunky, independent toddler. I know I lose my patience a lot with Pearl. I expect way too much of her... but she is just so darn smart and behaves so well everywhere outside of our home that I don't give her enough credit or let her have much down time. I'm not sure if it's because we are so much alike or because we are complete opposites that makes it hard for Pearl and I to get along sometimes. Besides, she self-appointed best friends once Cole was born and didn't choose me. For two years, I've heard nothing but, "You're not my best friend anymore. Dad's my best friend." It gets old and some days hurts my feelings. I get all defensive about it too. I would never go so far as to say I have a favorite child, because I don't feel that way, but sometimes the perception is there.

I try to take Pearl with me to "girls-only" stuff. Tonight we went to a "purse-onality" party. Pearl played downstairs with all the other kids and we spent less than two minutes checking out all the purses and jewelry. But it must have meant a lot to her because as we were walking out to the car, Pearl told me, "Mom. I love you." I was pretty shocked. I told her thanks and that I loved her too. Curious as to what sparked the nice compliment, I asked Pearl why she loved me. She told me, "Because you take me to girl parties sometimes."

Slowly I'll get my old best friend back.