Adjustment

Life with two children - It's an adjustment for everyone:  Mom, Dad and especially big brother.  Going from no children to one was much tougher for me than going from one to two.  Don't get me wrong - there are days when I am totally defeated by bedtime - both children demanding so much of my attention with no time for myself, but at least after having one child, I'm somewhat used to that.  The tiredness doesn't seem as exhausting with Julia...now.  Ask me again in a few months.  Life with two is good.  Hard, but good - and totally worth it.  

I've tried to be very conscious of Frankie adjusting to life with a sibling.  So far, he hasn't once asked for us to send Julia back, which I consider a success.  I try my best to continue to show him lots of attention and at first, I actually let myself feel guilty when he would see me showing affection to Julia.  I was so worried he would become jealous and mean towards her.  I've gotten better about that - and figure that I'm setting a good example for him by showing him how to act towards his little sister.  And while he's had his moments when he's not the nicest to her, overall, Frankie is an amazing big brother.  He always wants Julia to come with us - "Frankie, do you want to go to the playground?"  "Can Ju-ya come?"  He's willing to share with her - placing some of his beloved cars next to her on her blanket.  When she's crying, "What's wrong, Ju-ya?"  He melts my heart when he gives her kisses and tells her he loves her out of the blue.

Frankie is also a great helper for Mommy.  From helping with the diapers (he always tries to make sure Julia has an Elmo diaper, which is her favorite, according to him) and wipes at changing time, to washing her legs and feet at bath time.  He's even helped pick out her clothes a few times and takes her hat off when we come inside (which has led to a few scratches).  

I pray these two will develop the same special, close relationship that my sister and I have.