This afternoon, I was tired. Celia didn't take her nap, and Henry didn't take one either. I wasn't resting. I wasn't starting dinner, folding laundry, dusting the house, or planning our second Christmas meal as I had thought I would. I was just trying to keep a tired toddler and fussy baby happy.
I set Celia up with an art project. I tried to get Henry down for a nap, but he was wide awake. He was fussing a little more, so I put his seat near Celia so he could watch her, and went to turn on the vacuum hoping the white noise would calm him.
I wearily opened the closet, lugged the vacuum to the center of the hall, and plugged in the cord. I heard a small voice: "Mommy, I'll try to make Henry happy." Celia was kneeling next to his chair, talking to him. "It's okay, Henry Boy." (That's what I call him. She's always listening, even when I don't know it.) I started the vacuum. "Mommy, Henry's not crying anymore. He's happy now!"
She busied herself around him, jabbering away as she showed him toys, adorned his chair with her things, and surrounded him with pieces of her art project. She pretended he was Peter Rabbit and "made" him radishes and chamomile tea. He was transfixed.
He listened intently and watched her every move, examining each item she produced for him.
I could see for the first time how wonderful it will be for them to be brother and sister.
And as I pulled the vacuum down the hall, my eyes welled up and relief washed over me. I was still exhausted. Dark half moons still rimmed my eyes when I passed the mirror. I still longed for a nice shower and a long, deep sleep. But this sweet girl is back in my corner.
I couldn't possibly love her more.
And knowing, once again, that she loves me back- and seeing the good in what we've done giving Celia and Henry to each other- made my fatigue, the dark circles, the new wrinkles, those fifteen extra pounds, so, so worth it.
What a sweet daughter! and a cutie too. It is overwhelming having two children so young, but they will grow up to be best friends.
ReplyDeleteThat is just the sweetest thing. What an adorable helper.
ReplyDeleteOh, I love this! It is so rewarding to see the love shared between siblings. Hope for all sanity. ;) So sweet.
ReplyDeleteThat's so sweet! You're doing a great job.
ReplyDeleteHaving a big age gap between our first and second makes me worried we'll have more jealousy issues. It's wonderful to see how well they get along.
What a beautiful post Sarah! She is a special little girl! When Elijah was a baby, Corey broke his hand, and was in a cast that covered his thumb up to his elbow. He couldn't change diapers or anything for 6 months! It was crazy stressful at times. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteSuch a precious post!
ReplyDeletefirst off I've told you this like a gazillion times but you should be a writer! your writing is amazing and I just hang onto every word! I think this is one of my very favorite posts you have ever written! I got all giddy, smiley,teary eyed and cried along with giggly laughter all in one post lol! How sweet of Celia being back on team mommy! It looks like she was whipping up some major organic baby food, and I love how intently Henry was looking at her! See they are gonna be a good team a great pair and they are gonna tag team you too lol...hhaahha that is what siblings do ya know! I am sorry you are exhausted you are a great mommy! My hubs pulled his back when Kelcee was born...hmmm is this some kind of man conspiracy lol just kidding...I hope he gets well soon...back problems are terrible the hubs suffers greatly with them...hope you get some rest soon and I am glad you shared with us love me
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this post. So happy for you. :)
ReplyDeleteOh Sarah - I missed this the first time around. And NOW I realize how glad I am that I started this link up idea - this is EXACTLY what I wanted. To see a side of my friends that really gets to the heart of who they are - amazing, strong, beautiful women.
ReplyDeleteThis part-
"And as I pulled the vacuum down the hall, my eyes welled up and relief washed over me. I was still exhausted. Dark half moons still rimmed my eyes when I passed the mirror. I still longed for a nice shower and a long, deep sleep. But this sweet girl is back in my corner."
-Wow. Sarah this was absolutely beautiful.
Hugs to you, my friend.
xoxo
What a beautiful family you have. And amazing siblings they are going to be. There is nothing like the relationship between siblings. Just remember those amazing moments when they are in their teens and hate each other!
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