In the car on the way to Dubuque over the weekend, Daniel was unsatisfied with his electronic entertainment options. (First World Problems) He wanted a turn with Edward's DS and his own Leap Pad was not an acceptable substitute. "The Leap Pad is for learning, and I'm not in school now. I'm not home schooled, you know!"

This struck John and me as absolutely hilarious at the time. Seeing it written down now and without the benefit of Daniel's indignant tone of voice it loses a little something. The truth is, he loves the Leap Pad and hardly even seems to realize that the games have a learning component. He was just suffering from "My brother has something that I don't have at this exact moment." After about 20 minutes they switched and all was right with the world again.

Turtle exhibit at National River Museum, Dubuque

In another moment of "brotherly love" (air quotes!) Edward was bugging Daniel toward the end of a long day at the waterpark and Daniel finally got fed up and came to John in tears. Edward danced off to the waterslide while Daniel detailed the trials he was enduring at the hand of his brother. John got him calmed down and he went off to do more splashing and sliding. A few minutes later, he was back with this report: "Dad, here's how I'm dealing with the Edward situation. Number 1, I'm staying away from him. Number 2--oh, there are only 2 things--when he comes near me, I'm going to another spot."

A few more strategies were added in the remaining water play time, all involving keeping safe distance between himself and his brother. Edward finally started to feel the effects after about 15 minutes and came to us to ask why he couldn't find Daniel anywhere. We explained that he was staying away on purpose and Edward sought to make amends. Daniel forgives easily so they were back to slide racing.