Brotherly Love

I have a confession . . .

I wasn't sure how to feel about "brothers." In my family we have two girls and one boy, so there were no sets of brothers. My only brother had two sisters. We love him deeply, but when I found out I was having a second boy I just figured George wouldn't have too much to do with Ethan.

I was about as wrong as I could have been. My two boys are OBSESSED with each other. There is no one either one would rather play with than the other. They can literally spend hours in their room playing with toys.

George was three when Ethan was born, so I wasn't sure if they would have anything in common for a long time. Again, strike that one against me. They have so much fun together, and it is absolutely adorable.

It is actually harder for me to have Ethan alone than the two of them together. George completely entertains Ethan, so I can get things done around the house. When he isn't here I have to be a one man show for that baby, and he isn't nearly as happy with my antics as he is with his brother's.

George spent the night at my parents house one day this week, and when he walked in the door after being gone for less than 24 hours, you would have thought he was some kind of celebrity. Ethan was laughing, panting, smiling, and running (well, walking as fast as he could with those little legs) over to see him. George said, "Mom, he really, really missed me."

I just love the way they can communicate even though Ethan's only current word is "hi." I love the affection they show each other on a constant basis. George is always kissing Ethan's head or telling him how much he loves him. It is more precious than any words could ever convey.

I am sure they will have their rough patches, as any sibling relationship does, but I am praying hard that they will always be close. I want them to lean on each other and grow up with plenty of memories together. I heard it said once that your siblings are the only ones who travel your entire life with you. Your parents are there for the first half and your spouse is there for the second half, but siblings walk it all with you.

To my boys . . . Walk this life together and always stick by one another. Your dad and I will always be cheering you on. We love you, and are so proud of the relationship you have already built in one short year. Think of all you will accomplish throughout an entire life!