Brotherly love

We have been discussing summer camp plans with the boys. There is, by and large, great enthusiasm. Contrary to his increasingly obsolete reputation as a non-joiner, Jamie claims to have loved camp last summer. We assumed this was because of having his brother from another mother, Will, there. But he says he wants to go even if Will isn't there this year. As it happens this group is running a camp from the boys' old pre-school, as well as a place very near our house. We asked them and they were actually tickled by the prospect of being at their old stomping ground, perhaps because they can feel like distinguished alums now.

As we were talking about this, Connor suddenly says, in his sweetest, most heart-breaking little three-year-old voice: "Jamie? Will you take care of me at camp???" Jamie, of course, deferred answering by saying, "Connoooor (accompanied as often by eye rolling). You won't even be in the same group as me." We agreed, however, that Jamie could keep an eye on him in the playground and during camp-wide activities. Jamie wasn't overly excited about it but Connor then came after Jamie, arms extended for a rare fraternal hug. Reluctantly it was returned and good feelings abounded. For a little while.