Expecting Baby Number 2
I vividly remember the morning we found out we were expecting baby number 2. It was a whirlwind of emotions. I was thrilled picturing a new baby around the house and couldn’t wait to share with our families and our closest friends. I was already considering potential names and somehow trying to envision what that little face was going to look like.
While I was lost in La La Land, my toddler burst into my room, bringing me back to reality. Suddenly I was feeling a brand new emotion, almost like a pressure on my chest.
Questions like:
"Am I going to be able to love this child as much as I loved my first?"
"What if I'm not going to be able to be present enough for both of them?" and finally,
"Am I somehow betraying my first child by giving him a little sibling?"
All these thoughts started clouding my mind.
At first, I was almost ashamed of having those thoughts, but then a few moments later, I realised we had the opportunity to raise a toddler that would grow up to be a caring, protective, and emotionally aware child. The months went by very quickly (thanks to the constant entertainment from my toddler) and we were finally holding Hosannah in our arms. Leo was easily the most excited one, as he was counting the days till "baby" would bring him a little present.
Seeing our eldest child, Leo, interacting with his little sister filled our hearts with joy. It reassured us that another child is a great blessing for the whole family.
We face new challenges every single day.
As our two kids grow and start interacting with each other at a different level, we constantly have to adjust and find a new balance. We have to be intentional with our time, making sure that we plan for one-to-one experiences with each child, whatever that looks like for them, according to their age and passions. It doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. 30 minutes of your time is enough!
The more I get to know Leo and Hosannah, the more my love for each of my kids increases and deepens. The truth is that our children are unique. As Psalm 139:13-14 beautifully puts it,
"You formed my innermost being, shaping my delicate inside and my intricate outside, and wove them all together in my mother’s womb. thank you, God, for making me so mysteriously complex! Everything you do is marvellously breathtaking. It simply amazes me to think about it! How thoroughly you know me, Lord!"
We have been created creatively and purposefully. And so are our children! Take time to get to know your newborn without assuming or expecting them to be a copy of your older children. Embrace and enjoy the uniqueness of each child.
I can tell you that having a second child has been the greatest treasure for our family.
Gioia x