In a couple of weeks, our 12 year old daughter, Rose, will be going to a birthday party for the boy of her dreams.  The boy's name is Xavier, and he will be turning two years old!  Rose has been baby sitting him for his mother and grandmother semi-regularly for the last year or so.  Lately, "X Man" has been at our house on Thursday evenings while his mom is in Chemistry class.  We have no complaints about his weekly visits. 

Xavier's mom, Evelyn, came through youth group in our church at the same time as our oldest daughter, Jo.  She is a sweetheart, and a great mom, but we are really glad she shares her son with us.  Xavier is a big fan of Cars, Elmo, and Curious George.  In fact, since Halloween is on a Thursday this year, he'll be with us, and he'll be dressed as the curious little monkey while Rose is planning to be the Man in the Yellow Hat.  Perfect.

Xavier has a hot and cold friendship with me.  When Rose is at his house, he gets mad when I come over, because he knows I'm Rose's ride home.  On the other hand, he LOVES to watch me juggle.  When Rose (who X Man calls "Wee") is doing homework, I'll sit on the floor with him and juggle three balls.  He then runs from the other end of the living room and jumps on me, causing the balls to fly all over the room.  we play this game again and again and again...  He and "Wee" will be coming to a party where I'll be juggling.  hopefully, the Man in the Yellow Hat can keep the curious monkey from storming the stage while the props are in the air. 

I love how much caring for Xavier has caused Rose to grow up.  She loves this little guy, she beginning to think about him and his needs over her own, is growing in responsibility, and is wonderfully affectionate with him.  He is blessing Rose and our family at least as much as we bless him and his family.