These two boys have come along way these past few months. They had to hang tight while we launched a new business this past spring and they bared with me while I had a mama meltdown. They really had to fend for themselves when I injured my hip and needed bed rest the last three weeks of my pregnancy and they’ve had to adjust to life with a new baby and all the changes that have come these past few weeks.
It hasn’t been particularly easy on them and yet I notice the ways it has built character for each of them individually and bonded them as brothers. As much as they drive each other crazy (and us in the process) they also play with each other more and keep themselves busy more often. I had to do a double take when Sol recently dressed himself, made himself a snack and brushed his teeth in preparation for a play date–all without help or prompting from me. Six months ago Koala was hesitant to leave my side and now he begs to take off for the park with friends when the opportunity arises.
And just the other morning I suggested we go take a walk and I found them dressing themselves and S buttoning K’s shirt for him. I had just a moment to grab the camera and catch the moment.
Boys, we have come a long way and I’m so proud of the way you’ve grown.
What about you? Do you notice your kids stepping up to plate in times of change or great challenges?
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Absolutely. My children really help out a lot in our family. I really apprecite it when they play with the baby so I can get some work done. Also, they will make snacks for themselves and each other. I remeber when they first started showing their independence I was feeling the two emotions of being very proud of them and also asking myself , “where did the time go?”
Oh, I love this touching post!
And yes, I have to say, when I’m having hard time peacefully mothering my 2.5 year old, my 5.5 year old often steps in and makes everything all right ~ very humbling and beautiful indeed, and makes me want to do better next time!
That’s wonderful that your boys are becoming so independent! My son is getting much better at cleaning up his toys. He is trying to dress himself, but he’s still a bit young, just 2.
That picture is SO sweet! That’s wonderful about your boys.
Love your posts. Came over from Erin’s rec. and she’s right, you are just what I like to have in my life.
I’m so glad I discovered Erin, and now you.
This lifestyle of living more free and less tethered with stuff is what I’m slowly working toward.
I feel like an outsider in my small suburb trying to be like this, so women like you and Erin are essential to my sense of belonging to a larger collective…and not solo so much.
Alexandra, so nice to have you. I remember back when I was a new mom and living in the burbs and feeling very alone. The internet just exploded my experience and suddenly I had access to amazing networks of other like-minded moms. It really is a paradigm shift. I’m constantly thankful for my online community and the space they hold. Welcome! We’re so glad to have you :)