Dear Kids, ______ Is My Favorite Child

Dear Miles, Jonas, Emmy, and Lucy,

So you all like to ask me which one of my kids is my favorite.  As a parent, we are not supposed to have favorite children . . . but I do.  And I will tell you who it is soon . . .

But, first, you have each had your turn as my favorite child.  Miles, you for-sure held that position for at least the first 21 months of your life - seeing as you were my only child.  Jonas, you took over Miles' position as favorite when you came along.  A new, sweet baby versus a toddler - it wasn't too hard for you, Jonas, to win "Mom's favorite" during that time!  Emmy you came along in 2007 and as a beautiful new baby and our first girl, you took the claim to being my favorite child.  How fun you were to dress!  For the next few years it probably depended on the day who was my favorite.  But dear little Lucy came along in 2010 and "favorite child" definitely belonged to you, Goose, at least for a while! 

But now it is 2017 and you are all dying to know who my favorite child is.  So I will tell you.

My favorite child is Brigham.  That's right, our dog.  So if you want to become my favorite child here are just a few tips from Brigham:

1.  Always (as in 100% of the time) be excited about going for a hike - jiggle your entire body, in fact, to show your excitement.  Keep coming up to me and push your nose on my body because you just can't stand having to wait a second longer for our hike!  You should know we're going out for an adventure just because of what I wear - so, yes, show total excitement when you know we're going for a hike (or a bike ride or, heck, even a walk around the block).

2.  Never complain on the before-mentioned hike.  In fact, run and frolic and have the time of your life!  But, never get so far ahead whereas I can't see you - or, if by chance you do, wait a moment or two until you see me, give me a nod, and then continue with your frolicking.

3.  Don't require any special treats or snacks while hiking.  Because, duh, the hike is the treat!

4.  Always thank me for an awesome adventure.  But, please, not in licks.

Those are just a few things you can do to claim the title of "Mom's favorite child."  Good luck!

love,
mom