Some Kids Are Just Special

Yes, some kids are special. You don't have to tell them to be protective of their siblings and family, they just are. You don't have to tell them to stand up to injustice and prejudice, they just do it. Joe is one of those kids and, God love his heart, he was just born that way. I really can't take credit for it.

Yesterday we went to a birthday party of Dennis' grandfather. His uncle persisted in making derogatory comments about Ray's heritage and wanted to know why we would want yet another one since he found out we're adopting Jessie. I responded that "you have three kids, why shouldn't we want three?" Well, he went downhill from there and I chose to ignore him, for the time being.

Later, we were discussing it in the car and Joe wanted to know what was going on. I explained that his uncle was making mean comments about his brother and sister just because they are from another country. At that point Joe did this half-scream/half-roar and declared (VERY LOUDLY) "I want to smash a house on him! I LOVE my brother and sister!" Now I just have to direct that passion into a more positive response. ;-)

I do intend to have a talk with this uncle at some point. I may have to put up with the occasional comment from people outside the family, though there have been NONE at this point, but I refuse to put up with it from within the family. And, to my knowledge, this one uncle is the only person who has had a problem with our adoption(s). Everyone else dotes on little Ray like he's always been part of the family and they all say they are looking forward to welcoming our daughter into the family.

Meanwhile ...

Joe is already preparing for the much anticipated arrival of his sister. Yesterday he saw a shirt that he just had to have. He begged and pleaded, "pleeeaaaseee!" So, now he is the proud owner of his first sister-related shirt. It says, "I wish my sister had a mute button." Oh, if he only knew how much more sisters actually talk than moms do ... Still, she's going to have to try to out talk Joe, which is no easy feat, trust me.

Oh, Yeah ...

I almost forgot! TODAY is Joe's birthday! My sweet, sweet boy ... my little protector of the defenseless turns 9 today!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOE! I LOVE YOU!