Ketchup With My Nephews

Jonathan (almost 7) and David (aged 8)

For the last couple of days I have been staying with my nephews for their last days of their Christmas vacation.

It has been divine although somewhat exhausting as they both crave the attention of male company. They are usually surrounded by a handful of Burmese aunts who treat the boys, almost 7 and 8 like toddlers and are continually at their beck and call to meet their every whim. Uncle Aubs would not countenance such behavior however – and has always been great believer of Tough Love.

David on ice

We have certainly had a great time together with shared walks, cooking, board games (junior monopoly and chess), reading and writing activities and even a few crap DVDs to boot.

As over-indulged as they are (and they really are - their toy room would put Toys R Us to shame) they are great fun, affectionate and loving. It is lovely to share in their development and see their personal growth even in just a couple of days.

Jonathan with ice

Nephews

One of the hardest parts of being away from home is missing my two nephews growing up. Although I see them a couple of times in each of my UK visits almost every year, a year is a long time in their lives. They possess all the toys young boys can dream of, a huge play-room and a garden that could host a pitch and putt course – seriously spoilt.

However they remain absolutely charming nonetheless.

David is eight, plays the piano and guitar, and has recently taken up golf! Pa started taking him to a few Watford FC matches last season.



Watch David perform on Dr. Gloves´ piano by clicking here.

Jonathan is six years old and my Godson. I take my role very seriously. In attendance for The Bub´s circumcision – traditionally the Jewish Godfather holds down the boy during the snip. Will he resent me forever? This time I had to have a few Man-to-Man chats to tackle a few non-major issues. Better than having to be pinned down for serious surgery.



I found out today that Boy and N. are expecting their own Bub. Apart from concerns that Marley (their Shetland sheepdog) will have his nose pushed out of joint, I am both delighted and excited by becoming an uncle for the third time in March 2010.

Boy will win valuable brownie points from Ma if he is able to produce a girl – a victim of four sons and two grandsons.