Wednesday, August 5, 2009

a glimpse into life as an only child

Yesterday Adrienne got this glimpse for one of the first times in her life.  Marianna went for a sleepover with her Emme, leaving Nathan and I to spend the evening and the better part of the next day with one vivacious 15 month old who has never really tasted of the life of the child who enjoys the undivided attention of her parents.  We discovered early on that while our love doubled instantly when Adrienne entered our home, our time did not, meaning that most of Adrienne's waking hours have been shared with her sister.  

Of course that is just part of life.  You can't have multiple first children, and I don't think that even if we could that would necessarily be a good thing. All of us with more than one kiddo realize the distinct advantages that come with having siblings.  Adrienne has never lacked a play partner, she has been drowned in the love of her sister from the moment she got home, and she benefits from getting to tag along with all the fun "big kid" things Marianna gets to do.  

But still, the other side, the side that Marianna experienced day in and day out for 2 1/2 years, has been mostly foreign territory to Adrienne.  So since the opportunity doesn't come along every day, we made a big time of it.  I dusted off all the board books that haven't gotten much use since Marianna has out grown them, we sang baby songs, practiced baby words and animal sounds, and did 100% age appropriate things all day long.  It was fun to rewind and go back in time a little to when that was really what I did, all day every day.  Now of course, those things get sprinkled in with the big kid stuff, and we have a beautiful mixture that is representative of our family.  I wouldn't trade it for anything, but getting a chance for some one on one time with each girl is something I treasure.  Adrienne and I had a big time, and I was reminded that my baby is getting to be more of a big girl every day.


5 comments:

Laurin said...

sweet times with a sweet girl!

Laurie in Ca. said...

What a special time for Adrienne to have your undivided attention. And I don't mean to contradict your statement of "You can't have multiple first children", but having twins 38 years ago, I was constantly torn dividing my time equally with two babies, 24/7. I always felt guilty that one would get 3 minutes more than the other, etc. I am so glad for you guys to experience this with her. It must be so much fun. Love you Angie.

Love and Hugs, Laurie

Emily said...

so glad you got some special time with your baby girl! It's such a treat to get a break and be able to focus on just one child.

PeaceLoveHappiness said...

That picture is adorable! What a big girl she is getting to be!

Cristi said...

And what a cutie too!