Enjoying Three

Last Monday K & R went to our old house with me while P was in therapy. I explained to them that we were going to tidy things up so someone could come and look at the house to see if they wanted to make it their new home. (Yes, it is STILL on the market.)

K said, "Mommy, if they need a home we should GIVE them our old house. We have 2 so we can share."

I love how simple things are to little ones. They have a need. We have extra. Why is it complicated?

I am really, really enjoying this age. Their observations about the world are both entertaining and amazing. I am challenged to live out my faith in a way that proves to them my authentic love of Christ. We went through a rough couple of months as we were transitioning this Summer from toddler to child. I feel like the battle for control and the limit-testing hit a fever pitch. (The lack of structure and routine due to Summer certainly didn't help.) Although we are definitely still facing bouts of limit testing, overly dramatic/emotional outbursts, fussing, fighting and assertions of independence, the constancy has settled down to a more manageable level.

The children are truly enjoying each other as well. Of course they still make each other crazy, as only siblings can do, but their relationships with each other are very special.

For example, a few days ago I had arranged for Annie to come so my husband & I could have a little date night. R, our high emotional needs child, had been struggling for attention more than usual, so we decided a special date as the "only child" would be a blessing for him. K & P stayed behind with Annie and R joined our date. He chose the restaurant and we lavished him with attention and conversation. At first he seemed to relish it, but after about 10 minutes he said, "I want to go home. I miss my K & P."

I am constantly waivering between giggles and joyful tears as I listen to their banter with each other. Yesterday, P was struggling to manipulate a toy and K starting cheering him on, "You can do it, P. Dat's da spir-wit! Look, you doin' it. You doin' da spir-wit!" Even though the phrase she put together didn't make much sense, P was beaming (and so was I). Is there anything better than hearing them encourage one another?

I must admit the realization that they will likely one day be closer to one another than they will be to my husband and me makes me a bit sad. Selfishly, I want to feel like we are their greatest allies, cheerleaders, protectors and confidantes, but I also realize the true gift that they have in each other and the blessing that will be long after their parents have passed on.

I have claimed this verse for them before, but it grows truer every day.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down, his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)