A lot has happened since the last post - we have a new baby but that is not what this post will be about.
Konrad loves Pokemon. Anyone who knows him, knows this. His obsession has lasted for about 6 months. We even had a Pokemon-themed birthday party recently for his 6th birthday. Eric drew a larger than life Pikachu for a 'Pin the tail on the Pikachu' game and it still graces our living room wall. Konrad's love of Pokemon is an important detail to remember while reading the following story.
Lots of changes have happened since the baby (Ezra) was born. Anders is no longer the baby and the once nearly-perfect boy is now exploring boundaries within the family. There's a lot more bickering and fighting between Anders and Konrad. They're okay while outside in the open but once inside the house, there is teasing, arguments over their favourite colour, kicking and punching. It sorta drives me crazy.
Konrad is currently in piano lessons. In order to motivate the students, the teacher gives them a score each week. Their score depends on whether they've practiced, listened during lesson time, etc. After 4 weeks, he has a score out of a hundred. So far, Konrad has always scored the 'best prize' which has been renting a movie and Anders chooses the snack. Konrad has been saving money earned from his birthday, occasional allowance and his most recent 'piano prize' to purchase some Pokemon cards. Lastnight, we went to Wal-Mart so he could choose some cards. Anders was a little sad because he did not have money to buy his own Pokemon cards. He was even crying a little because we couldn't find any packs cheaper than $13.
After getting home, Konrad and Daddy stayed in the car a bit longer. Eric explained that Anders is a little sad because he felt left out. Usually, when we rent the move, we allow Anders to pick the treat and he feels pretty happy about that but when Konrad chooses Pokemon cards, Anders cannot share them and it makes him sad. Eric told me that Konrad's eyes became huge with understanding. Konrad came into the house and held his new Pokemon cards. He sat down with Anders and dealt the cards - one for Konrad, one for Anders, one for Konrad, one for Anders... Konrad did not even look to make sure he was giving Anders the lower-point cards. Some of the cards were very good. I was amazed that Konrad gave half of his new booty to his little brother.
Despite the bickering and teasing, I think they truly do love each other. It is so nice to see a glimmer of this once in a while. It makes me happy. As I write this, they are beside me in my bed kicking and wrestling. I think I'm developing claustrophobia....
