Originally posted 2008-12-29 02:08:01.
If you have nieces or nephews, you will forever see them in a certain light. By this I mean; let’s take my perspective on these particular niece-nephew brother-sister.
This niece was one that was rather colic. I actually avoided going near her fearing I’d make her cry, cos she’d cry at high decibels and long periods. Her brother was one who seemed rather reclusive to me- while cheeky, he didn’t seem the type who was interested in a lot of things.
Fast forward 16 or so years.
And, since being a father, I had always wanted to participate in activities with my kids- doesn’t matter what activity, so long as we do them together. Sports, activities, games, hobbies. Since my kids are still so young, to date it’s mainly been real kiddie-stuff like going to the kids gym or movies or just a dip in the pool. Other than assisting her in developing these motor skills, I haven’t really thought much more beyond these current activities.
Tonite, I dropped by my brother’s house with Caitlin, just because. I caught my brother jamming with his two kids.
I found myself regretting.
I am not musically inclined insofar as being able to compose or write stuff, but I am not tone-deaf. My regret is that, while I was a young’un, my parents did send me to guitar classes. For whatever reason; likely due to simple no-discipline, I didn’t follow through and never continued with the lessons.
This bother however, self-taught how to play the guitar and the keyboard. Through repeated listening of songs he can replay them on these instruments. Of course having a good ear helps too.
And perhaps its also genetic, for these two kids seem to have that talent too.
I found myself admiring this scene on different levels.
This was very obviously not the first time they do this, cos they were jamming to a few songs in sync.
That they have very similar talents.
That they were doing this family activity together.
That they are not kids anymore.
And, I gotta find me something unique to do with my kids too!
I know- this something will come naturally. I just hope that I will be home or around them enough for this something to develop or be discovered.
PS: That’s my mum in the background, who taught me how to sing!
