Good Older Brother

I couldn't be more pleased with the relationship my two boys have with each other. When I was expecting Kanoa many thoughts and worries raced through my mind as to how Keanu was going to interact with his baby brother. At first, Keanu was pretty reserved and would only look at Kanoa admiringly, but didn't want to touch him. But, that changed gradually. He would slowly touch Kanoa on the face by rubbing his cheeks and then kissing him on the head and then hugging. Now, it's like he is overly affectionate where it sometimes scares me as Keanu wants to hug Kanoa so much it looks like he is suffocating him. But, Kanoa doesn't seem to mind.

There is nothing more rewarding to watch a 3 year old and 5 month old baby interact by laying on the floor and laughing at each other. I truly believe they are going to be best friends. I can already see the kinship forming and Keanu, being the sweet, caring, and affectionate person that he is will always look out for his brother. Kanoa is also quite infatuated with Keanu and I must say when Keanu is in preschool I sense that he misses him.

It will be very interesting to see how they grow up together. My job, as their mother, is to promote a healthy relationship and to always be respectful and considerate to each other. Keanu epitomizes a "good older brother". When the angels sent me Keanu not only did they send me a baby that I longed for, but a good soul. I look to how I parent, but I can't seem to really take credit for his good nature. He was just born that way. I can only hope Kanoa will be as good a soul as his older brother.

I'll Start Here

A little over a month ago I was a mother to one child, a 2 and half year old. Things were somewhat simple and becoming more routine. As Keanu has been getting older he has become more self efficient and more independent. It was becoming quite nice not having to tend to his every need. For the past year, I also have been pregnant with our 2nd boy. I also had quite an uncomfortable last few months of my pregnancy so moving around tending to Keanu was becoming difficult. He still required me changing his clothes, bathing, potty training etc. But, having a child that can walk, talk and do many things for himself was good timing with my pregnancy.

Then, Kanoa arrived! What a cute bundle of joy. Grandma was here helping out, but I discovered that was not exactly what I expected and I'll elaborate on that later in another blog, but being suddenly thrusted in caring for two children seriously turned OUR world upside down. And, I don't mean just mine and my husband's. I know it has been quite an adjustment for Keanu. I already discovered what to do and what not to do already with a toddler who isn't getting all the attention anymore.

My main concern with Keanu is still giving him the right amount and quality attention while also having to tend to Kanoa who does require more attention at this time. I don't want Keanu to have issues with this whole chapter in his life later in life. I grew up an only child so I don't know what it's like to share parents.

So, this is where I'll start my blog... talking about Keanu and what is working and not working. I am no expert, but with everyday being a new experience I may just someday become an parenting guru!