President, Senior Scribes
I’ll Help
By Delbert Blickenstaff

“Ken honey, I think that we should talk about starting our family. We’re in our mid-twenties and we’ve been married over two years. I think now would be a good time.” 

“OK Pat, I’m willing to consider it, but we have to realize that it would completely change our lifestyle. And I think we both enjoy what we’re doing now.” 

“You’re right, but I often wonder what it would be like to hear the patter of little feet.” 

“I can show you.” 

“Who said that?” 

“I don’t see anyone else in here.” 

“I’m Angel Adriene and you can’t see me. But you can hear me and I’m going to give you the chance to see exactly what your lives would be like five years from now should you decide to start your family.” 

“I don’t know if I’m ready for this.” 

“Oh I am. Let the show begin.” 

“OK. Here’s the scene. You, Pat, are holding your 6 month old baby girl in the kitchen. You’ve just given her a bottle and you’re trying to burp her.” 

“But she doesn’t look like a normal baby.” 

“You’re right. She’s a Down’s Syndrome baby, which you knew before she was born, but both of you decided to keep the pregnancy.” 

“She seems like a happy baby.” 

“She’s a very happy baby and she gets lots of attention from the twins.” 

“The twins?” 

“Yes. The twins are five years old and are playing something in the living room right now. Donna and Donald are, of course, not identical twins, but they act like identical twins. They’re inseparable and very competitive. Last summer Donna saw Donald jump over a wheelbarrow so she tried it. She’s not as athletic as he is and she fell, breaking her right arm. But she recovered nicely.” 

CRASH! 

“What was that?” 

“Mom, Donald fell off the mantle and I think he broke his arm.” 

“What were you doing up on the fireplace mantle?” 

“Well, she dared me to walk all across the room without touching the floor. So I took my shoes off so I wouldn’t scratch the furniture. While I was stepping over the family picture I slipped and fell. Don’t touch my arm. I think it’s broke.” 

“Let me see. Hm. I think you’re right. Pat, I’m going to take Donald to the ER and Donna I want you to stay here and think about your part in this.” 

“Well, how did you two parents-to-be like that little vignette?” 

“I loved it. And I can’t wait to be a mother. How about you, honey?” 

“Me too. I’ll help.” 

Delbert Blickenstaff