Siblings

I'm sure that I am guilty of putting my children in boxes (metaphorically speaking, not for reals, so don't call child services on me!).  But I do think that their personalities are already showing and they certainly have their own unique traits. 

Ryan is my calm, gentle, follower.  He is a good listener most of the time, never really gets into anything he isn't supposed to, just basically a good kid.  Things belong in their place and he can be a little controlling.  He asks constantly what we are doing next and likes order to his days. 

Abby is my free-spirited, curious, gets into everything kid.  Everything goes into her mouth, everything gets pulled off the shelves, everything is something to be climbed on.  She tests all boundaries and if I tell her no she gives a very opinionated cry. 

I am hoping their differences will balance each other out and they can help each other to grow.  However, I predict that they will do a lot of plotting and scheming along the way.  And I believe that Abby will be the initiator of most of the trouble-getting-into.  I can see bits of this already.  Ryan now puts things in his mouth.  This is about to drive me bonkers, he never put anything in his mouth until a few months ago.  "But Abby does"  Aaargh.  Yesterday Abby was pulling diapers out of the basket - one of her favorite activities.  Ryan joined in and began throwing them in the air, "it's raining diapers."  Of course I could see what they were doing, but as I came physically around the corner, Abby's crawling off leaving Ryan in the mess.  Humm, yes I fear I will accidentally scold Ryan for more than one of Abby's actions in the future (don't worry, neither got in trouble yesterday, diaper throwing is not a fight worth fighting for me at this point). 

I love my children.  I love watching them grow and develop and learn about the world and themselves.  I love more than anything watching them play together.  I know as they grow up they will have their moments and there will be fights.  But I wish more than anything that they will always be friends and always be close.  I am sure they will tire me and try me and push my buttons, but I love that they do it together.  Siblings are such a special blessing and I am grateful everyday that they have each other.