New Birth

Well, last Tuesday at 12.20 am our little Benjamin was finally born into the world. What an incredible experience! I'm amazed at the beauty of new life. BJ's innocence, his sweet spirit, his quiet and gentle manner are beautiful to me.

Already Z is taking to his new little brother. He wants to look at him, touch him, even say his name! (Andrew and I thought it interesting that out of all the words he could be saying, he's happy to sign "milk" "food" "diaper change" etc., but it's Benjamin's name he's been trying to pronounce.) It's a relief to my spirit that Z is handling the change well. I've really been making a point of showing Z that while we have a new person in our family, he is still a loved and welcome part of that family. I think that's had good results. Z seems excited about his new brother, wanting to talk about him and mimic his sounds, and doesn't seem threatened by him. It's a desire of my heart that this addition to our family be just that- an addition. More goodness and love to go around!

Benjamin is so different from Ezekiel. Where Z is vocal, BJ is quiet. Where Z demanded that his needs be met, BJ quietly asks- and then waits. Where Z is ready to go go go and explore the world, BJ seems content to sit quietly and cuddle. Where Z struggled with nursing because he was frustrated when it wasn't going the way he wanted, BJ took to nursing quickly by thinking about it, figuring it out and making it work for him. Where Z is bold and confident, BJ is timid and cautious. Where Z needs a smack down, BJ needs comfort and encouragement. Such different children! Each with his own strengths, his own weaknesses, his own unique personality. I love them both so dearly. And I look forward to the life we have ahead.

Ariya