Big Sister Kylia...

Kylia gets down on Solomon's level
Solomon is wondering whether Kylia holding him is such a great idea...
Wes, showing how easy it is to handle two kids at once.
Kylia- in one of her more helpful moments.

So- Here are the great things about having two kids: I have great built-in places to take Solomon where he can watch and interact with people (Kylia's preschool, the park, etc.). I love that when Kylia and I take Solomon places I have someone who can hold a conversation. I love that Kylia can get things for Solomon when I am busy with him or entertain him in the car for a moment.

What I don't love: Thinking how great it is that I can leave her in the car with him for a moment, coming out, and realizing she is trying to feed him a raisin. Or hearing a thud and realizing that she just broke the rule of not picking up Solomon, and then preceded to drop him. Or truly not realizing why standing on his stomach would make him cry. I'm not sure how to make that into a good, teachable moment. And yet- he lights up the most when Kylia enters the room. She gets a big grin and squeals of delight from him whenever she shows up.

Kylia's summation of Solomon for now is that he is boring and takes a lot of work. From a 3 year-old perspective, not far off. I thought that patience was a challenge for me before, but when I am busy with Solomon's messy diaper or other messes, when Kylia gets in the way I find that my patience has taken a vacation to Hawaii...without me. She is adjusting pretty well, and I still get time with her alone, but some of her behavior has really horrified me. I think we all have some room to grow.

...Except for Solomon, who is wonderful and generally super happy. He is now the main encourager of the family with his giggles and grins. He loves music, banging on things, and having his needs met. And I have not had one rude word from him, except a few cries. I am definitely enjoying the baby phase in a whole different way, not in a hurry for him to do anything. It has been a huge gift to have these few weeks with him when Kylia is in preschool to just get to know each other. I was worried about how I would feel about a second child, but I am surprised by the ease of bonding with him and the contrast of a challenging preschooler.