Justin's Not-Invisible Friend

On December 19th a new member of the family arrived...his name is "Baseball Player Number One Russell Martin." He's a two-toned brown puppy from Build-a-Bear decked out in full Dodger gear (hat, jersey, pants with belt, stirrup socks, cleats, bat, ball, and glove...don't get me started on how brilliant a business plan BABW is...$40+ for what started out as a $12 stuffed animal). Anyhow, Baseball Player is now a part of the family. I faithfully belt him into the booster seat when we get in the car, he sits with us at dinner, and I kiss him good night at bedtime, but the best part is when he "talks." This is a typical conversation:

J: Mom, Baseball Player is crying.
M: Oh?
J: Ask him why he's crying, Mommy?
M: Okay, Baseball Player, why are you crying?
(No response)
M: What did he say?
J: He says it's because he didn't want to be left in the car while we went to the library. He's lonely without me.
M: Oh. I'm sorry that made him sad.
J: Mommy, Baseball Player is crying again. Ask him why?

This can go on and on! Baseball Player apparently spends much of his day crying over small insults. I thought by having a boy I didn't have to deal with these things! I've already agreed to go buy some pretend food at the toy store tomorrow because "Baseball Player is very hungry...he just can't wait." Sigh! I guess I did it to myself!