It feels like yesterday that my now 8 and 10 year olds were new and not yet two. It was my hardest season as a mother. They are just 22 months apart and in those early days they both needed me so much — one required frequent nursing and constant touch, the other, direction, supervision, snacks, and snuggles. I cried a lot; equally from love as from frustration.
Things did get easier.
If you are in the slump of a newborn and toddler, I promise, there is a light
In fact, it’s a darn near celebration. They grow up and learn to pour their own water, wipe their own bums, and get themselves dressed. Even more, they learn to help.
Last year when my husband and I announced that we would be adding a new baby to our family, our fifth child, they jumped for joy! They immediately started brainstorming names, curating a registry, and dreaming of who their new little sibling would look like. Their excitement blossomed as my belly grew and by the time I gave birth I was unsure who was more excited — them or me.
It has been three months now and I have never known a more loved baby
My big kids are always asking how they can help. They change diapers and participate in bath time. They take pride in rocking him to sleep and are the first to soothe him when he is upset. These two, my first and second born, have been my saving grace these days while I juggle their preschool-aged siblings and prepare our family for a big move.
So, for their love, for their care, for being two of my greatest blessings, I want to say “thank you”
Dear Big Kids,
It is hard to believe that you are old enough to take care of a baby alongside Daddy and I. In fact, we fully know you two will be amazing parents someday because we see you in action now. You love our baby SO WELL! You are practically pro parents! A mini mom and dad! Seriously, you two rock!
When your brother looks at you it is obvious that he loves you as much as you love him. Your relationships started almost a year ago now, when you would talk to my belly. Your brother has known you since the very beginning! Like, the very very beginning! How cool is that?!? It’s no wonder that he smiles big and acts so content when you are around. Even when he is upset, it is your voice and touch that calm him. What a gift. To be someone’s safe place. To be their joy.
Without your help I know I would be lost. Or at least much more frantic. Your helping hands — whether it be flipping pancakes so I can sit and nurse or remembering the diaper bag before we leave home — is my saving grace. Nothing makes me feel more at ease than knowing my baby is safe and loved while I tend to other responsibilities.
Words don’t quite express how much I appreciate you. You have made this postpartum season a beautiful time for our family. You are quick to serve. You are thoughtful and kind. You are willing to learn new things, like how to dress a wiggly baby and efficiently change a diaper. I don’t know many 8 and 10 year olds that can do that! Such skills! Like, you should probably enter the big sister and big brother Olympics! I am sure you would take home gold.
Dearest big kids, I am so grateful for you. So, so grateful!
If you want ice cream tomorrow or a puppy or a trip around the world – just ask, I’ll definitely be compelled to say yes! You are wonders. Most days I alternate between tearing up and smiling just thinking about how blessed your baby brother is to be a part of our family because of YOU; how blessed I am to call you two my bigs. Because I am.
For being so young, you are so wise and so kind. I hope you know what a gift you are to our family. Since the very beginning I have known you were special and this new season of our life only proves it more. I love you for a million reasons … and helping me love our new baby so well makes that a million and one.
With all my love and my neverending thanks,
Mama
