A Brother.

There was a time when I thought I wanted Gracie to have a sister. I have lived my life (all but those first 4 years) as the oldest of two girls, the Big Sister. The relationship between sisters is a sweet one (most of the time) and I value the bond between my sister and I now more than ever. We're both women, we're now wives and mothers, we understand each other because we can relate, but also because we know each other in a deeper, I've known you my whole life kind of way. While I wouldn't trade my sister in for anything, I now know the blessing of a boy and I have no doubt that God knew just what he was doing when he gave Gracie a baby brother, in the same way that he decided I would have a baby sister.

Gracie often refers to Ethan as "her" baby. She's extremely protective. I pity anyone who does her brother wrong. I've watched her defend him on more than one occasion, and while I have had to explain why she can't scream at or chase down other children, I am proud of her dedication to protecting her brother while he cannot protect himself. If she doesn't think an adult has done their duty, she's on it.

It's a joyful experience watching Gracie and Ethan grow together, as they continue to strengthen a bond that began before Ethan even took his first breath. I'll never forget the lazy afternoons I spent with my girl watching my belly jump as her brother responded to her voice. I'll never forget the way she was anxious to peek into my belly button, just to catch a glimpse of this baby she already loved. And I will never, ever forget the first time she laid eyes on him that summer evening almost a year ago.


When I was pregnant with Ethan, I used to imagine what this whole "sibling" thing would look like. I have a sibling of my own (and have even acquired extra sisters along the way!), but I wondered what it would be like to look from the outside in. In only 10 months I can tell it's a special thing, a relationship that will change and grow as they do during the years ahead. They are playmates now, but one day, as I myself have learned, they will be so much more.


I hope that they will always take care of each other, love each other, and remember what a blessing a sister/brother truly is.

Comments

  1. Platinum RoseApril 23, 2012 at 10:49 PM

    I hope that for them, too. One of the biggest reasons I don't want my son to be an "only" like both me and my husband are! I love the picture of Ethan, he's SO stinking cute. And I loved reading about all the cute things Gracie did with her brother while you were pregnant. Such a special bond, already!

    ReplyDelete
  2. redwineApril 24, 2012 at 2:06 PM

    This is the sweetest thing I have ever read! If Ashley reads this, she will want a second child for sure.

    ReplyDelete
  3. RachelleMay 8, 2012 at 3:29 PM

    It is so great to read this! As I near the end of my pregnancy, I wonder what kind of big brother my son will be to his sister. He is already such a loving guy, especially to the belly. It will be interesting to see, and reading your post makes me fear the change less ;-)

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