Big Sister

We've shared a lot about our sweet addition Caroline,
but theres been another addition in the house.

We've got a big sister here.

The last six weeks have been a lot.
We celebrated the holidays,
had both sets of grandparents visit,
and welcomed another human to our little family.

That's a lot going on for anyone.
Especially a two year old.


After our visitors left we experienced some 'growing pains'
as Lauren adjusted to her new role as Big Sister.
Uncharacteristic fits...
meaning more than usual
difficulty listening to directions...
she was totally testing us
and even some hitting/kicking...
only mom was on the receiving end.



It made for a hard couple of weeks.
We knew our sweet girl was overwhelmed with all that was happening,
yet didn't have the ability to truly express her feelings.
So it came out in all the wrong ways.
Not to mention,
she's two.
So frankly, she could have totally intended to express herself that way.



Matt and I felt challenged as parents and did our best to remain calm
and stick to our proverbial 'guns' as to what our expectations of Lauren's behavior were.
We're also learning to pick and choose our battles. 



I am happy to say the past two weeks have been much better.
Lauren is back to her happy, helping, listening, yet still busy and strong willed self.
We seem to be more in a routine and peace has been restored...
for now.

In the aftermath of said 'growing pains',
Matt and I are both making a conscious effort to get some one on one time with Lauren.
Lauren has been attending gymnastics on Saturday mornings with dad
and going on special errands,
from oil changes and lunch
to Lowe's trips.



Lauren and I have been making special treats in the kitchen
and having tea parties while sister naps.
We're also making sure Lauren gets to continue activities that she enjoys,
dance, gymnastics, trips to the park and the library.

One of the things that makes me my heart the happiest is that throughout the last six weeks,
even at her 'worst',
Lauren has shown nothing but love and adoration for her little sister.

She holds her,
she speaks to her in soft tones,
and she is full of positive affirmations for her sister as she points out all of her 'pretty' features.
Pretty hair, Caroline. Pretty eyes, Caroline.
Pretty dress, Caroline. Pretty belly button, Caroline.
I believe I've mentioned this before, but it really is so sweet.
And something this mama doesn't want to forget.



I'm not naive. (pause, or maybe I am?)
I know that it's not all cake pops and and sweet sister poses from here on out.
There will be more challenging times ahead as we navigate parenting two girls...
but in this moment,
I just want to treasure the image of my two daughters sitting together and the sweet sound of a proud big sister's voice whispering softly to her little sister.