“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”

 

I’m not sure who said it first, just that Mom and Dad used to say it to us when we complained that a sibling was bothering us by copying, or echoing, or doing whatever siblings do.

 

I’ve been thinking about that quote quite a bit lately.  Both Maggie and Katherine have been following me around with their baby dolls, doing whatever I happen to be doing with Abby. Sometimes it is a simple feeding, or diaper change. Other times it has been a running commentary – everything I say to Abby is repeated to the “baby of the day.”   Honestly there are times I feel myself getting frustrated – much as I did years ago.  But when I step back and take a deep breath, I see that they are learning what it means to be a mommy, and practicing, and loving every minute.

 

This picture tells quite a story. Notice that I’m dressed for winter – despite the calendar saying JUNE! Note that Katherine doesn’t mind the temperature – she still rejects pants as often as I let her. And note that while she is copying the idea of feeding – she is not focusing too much on the actual technique. I’m pretty sure she’s never seen me holding Abby by the head to feed her!