It’s hard to believe, but Reese is almost 1 year old. She’s growing up so fast, and Stella has noticed that her little sister is becoming more and more fun to play with. Stella has the ability to make Reese laugh for what seems like no reason at all. Stella simply has to pay attention to her, and Reese giggles with glee! As their mom, I find great joy in seeing them enjoy one another and develop a special relationship.
Here’s a video capturing a moment of laughter exchanged between the two of them.
Here is a sweet photo of Reese waking up her big sister from afternoon nap. Reese LOVES to do this. All I have to do is ask Reese if she wants to go wake up Stella, and she begins to kick her legs and wave her hands as if to say, “YES, YES, YES!”
Bath time is one of the girls favorite things to do together. I think they both could spend an entire day in the bathtub together and still want more. Reese loves to watch Stella perform for her and Stella loves to teach Reese every fantastic thing she can about water play.
Reese has recently learned to pull herself up using the furniture. Stella loves that her baby sister is becoming a big girl because that means that Reese can participate in more play with her. Stella often congratulates Reese when she stands up by giving her a huge hug (sometimes resulting in them both toppling over).
In fact, I’ve really noticed that Stella loves to encourage Reese in every way. Sometimes she is consoling her when she’s grumpy or got an ouchie, and other times it’s simply a big sister gently teaching her little sister the rules of life. For example, over the holiday’s Stella has indulged in eating some treats that she knows Reese isn’t able to try yet. As Reese attempts to rip the treat from Stella’s hand, Stella gently removes her hand and says, “No Reese, one day you can have this treat, but not right now… you’re too little.” SO sweet.
This morning, Reese had missed her morning nap and was a little on the grumpy side. Stella got a little too close to grumpy-pants, and Reese grabbed Stella’s hair to use as leverage to stand up. My sweet Stella kept her cool, called for Mommy, and never once attempted to retaliate against her little sister.
I know that there will likely be moments, and even seasons of war between our girls. But for now, I am savouring every one of these precious moments. Years down the road when they are in battle, maybe they can read a blog or two like this and be reminded of the blessing they have in each other. Sisterhood is a gift.