It's a No-Win Situation

I've observed an amusing phenomenon in our home of late. It has to do with Ian and Alec and their ability (or rather, inability) to entertain themselves one without the other.

First scenario: Both boys are in their high chairs after breakfast, under strict orders to finish their milk so they can get down and play. With some encouragement Ian finishes first and happily hops down, calling out a merry, "Bye, Alec!" as he scampers out the kitchen door.

In about one minute ... he's back. Hovering around his brother's feet, he begins to poke his fingers into cupboards and foodstuffs until he is ordered "out of the kitchen! Go play!" His departure lasts for about another minute before he is hovering again. And so it goes over and over until finally, Alec can get down and the two of them can get into mischief together. Once the two peas in the pod are reunited, all is well.

Second scenario: Ian and Alec are playing outside when suddenly wails erupt and Alec indignantly informs me, "Ian hit!" The penitent offender is temporarily removed from playtime, but rather than enjoy freedom from abuse the victim insists on hanging around and trying to engage his brother in conversation and laughter. Despite being encouraged time and again to go outside and play, he repeatedly returns until his playmate is released. Once they are together again, the fun continues.

So as I like to say to my husband, in Ian and Alec's case getting your brother into trouble or beating him at a milk drinking competition is a "no-win" situation. Or to put it more poetically, I thought the quotes below captured these two perfectly!

Friendship is one mind in two bodies.
~Menclus

In my friend, I find a second self.
~Isabel Norton

What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies.
~Aristotle

Are we not like two volumes of one book?
~Marceline Desbordes-Valmore

Soul-mates are people who bring out the best in you. They are not perfect but are always perfect for you.
~Author Unknown

Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind. "Pooh!" he whispered. "Yes, Piglet?" "Nothing," said Piglet, taking Pooh's paw. "I just wanted to be sure of you."
~A.A. Milne

If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile. But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me.
~Author Unknown