Belles of the Bayou

Madalynn and Jillian are becoming good friends and they love each other's company.

Madalynn has the typical first born child characteristics. She mothers her siblings, has a very strong opinion about most things and is the ring leader when it comes to what the kids decide to play. Her mothering instinct has been very evident in how she has taken Jillian under her wing as "her own."

Jillian rarely gets a full nap because Madalynn will go into their room, even if the door is shut and she knows Jillian is sleeping, and wake her up so she can bring he out into the living room and play with her. Now, as a mom, this is MADDENING. However, I've tried to stay calm and realize I'm glad she loves her little sister. Madalynn is going to have to come to MY understanding on this. Can you tell I'm a firstborn, too? :) I have told her I'm glad she likes to spend time with her sister. I have reiterated, however, that nap time is essential.

Madalynn has also taken an interest in trying to learn how to change Jillian's diaper. She kept begging me to try, so I put her off by suggesting she watch me a couple of times. Well, before I knew it, Madalynn had not only plucked Jillian out of a peaceful sleep, but she was trying to change her diaper as well. I told her no more changing diapers and that that was my job because it can be a messy job with surprises! She snuck a couple more diapers on before she learned her lesson the other day. I asked Madalynn to bring Jillian into the bathroom (I was already in the tub), so I could give her a quick bath. I specifically told her NOT to try to take her diaper off, but that I would do it. She defied me and pulled the diaper off on my bedroom floor, in true firstborn form, and SURPRISE! That's right, she had a poopy diaper. She had to frantically search for the wipes while Jillian rolled around on my bedroom floor smashing poop into the carpet. Madalynn was flustered, but I "allowed" her to finish her job. Life teaches hard lessons!

Jillian likes to ride in Madalynn's doll stroller. She has no choice in the matter, so I'm glad she likes it! Madalynn straps her in and they putter around the house.

Jillian loves Madalynn and her company just as much as Madalynn loves her and her company. Jillian will willingly sit still and "watch" a 15-minute cartoon in the chair beside Madalynn. Jillian rarely sits still for anything, as most of you know. Jillian also keeps Madalynn company and plays in their room while Madalynn cleans it.

The picture above was snapped a couple of days ago. Madalynn was dressing up and insisted that Jillian MUST have something pretty to wear, too. Madalynn has always tried to be the star of the camera lens, but I think sister Jillian was actually trying to pose like the supermodel this time!