As a second time mom, something I think about quite often is how to be fair when it comes to the kids. From small things like buying the e-x-a-c-t same baby book for both of them, to making sure they both have their birth shadow boxes, to offering them the same snack (now that Oliver is weaning). If I handmade a mobile for Penelope, I had to do one for Oliver too, and the list goes on.
I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s stressful being equal with the children, but I’m certainly aware of it… a lot. Though I feel I have been successful at it so far, I make peace with the fact that I probably won’t be completely successful at it for the rest of my life. I can certainly try, but if I can’t, I know it’s OK too. The effort has to be worth something, right?
One of the things that came together quite spontaneously in the subject of being “fair” with the kids, is ” A Mother’s Love” session I had with both of them around the same time in their lives- Penelope at 3.5 months old and Oliver at 6 months old. Looking at these pictures, I see a few things. 1. Adam and I must only have one position one mold (haha) because I can’t believe how much Penelope and Oliver look like each other. I notice the little subtleties in their faces, Penelope’s softer edges and Oliver’s more prominent features, but they are very much little twins – girl and boy version, 18 months apart. 2. They have such great smiles. 3. Oliver has a lot more hair than Penelope did… and Penelope had a lot of hair for a 3.5 month old. 4. I love the wonderful space that both sessions took place in. Edmonton has so many beautiful little gems all around.
And lastly…
5. I see my smile, the way I look at them when they are nursing, the light in my eyes when they are around, and I know one thing…
One thing I’m never going to have to worry about when it comes to being “fair” with them is how much I love them. I love them with every fiber in my being, with every kiss, with every early morning wake up, every giggle, every hug. I just adore them.
Happy Week! xo
* Beautiful pictures taken by the amazing Vannessa Brown. *
