Sucker

Little Charmer

This kid. After years of poking fun at Mark for being such a softie on Lainey and virtually incapable of disciplining her, I have to sheepishly admit that I am just as bad (possibly worse) with Nick. He has me wrapped around every single one of his 10 little fingers and isn't letting go any time soon. I don't know if it's because he's a boy or if it's because he's my youngest or if it's because he went through that long, torturous period when he wanted nothing to do with me, but I am a true blue, 100% SUCKER for him!

All is takes is his little voice saying, "Mama" or his tilted head, all-teeth-showing smile or his fish-face pucker to lay a kiss on me and he can have whatever he wants. Even when he's being a little devil, I seem to have unending tolerance. And even though I know he's old enough to be held accountable for bad behavior, I just can't seem to take a strong stand with him--something that is not going unnoticed by Lainey (because I do not have the same patience with her). I'd be willing to bet that if she knew what her middle finger could mean, she'd be flinging it my way frequently these days. I know it's not fair that he gets away with everything, including torturing his sister, but, but, but...this face...

His pouty face is irresistible to me!

<Sigh> Sometimes the heart is stronger than the mind. And my heart belongs to this little guy right now. So, buddy, enjoy the ride. Mama's not getting tough any day soon.