I think that one of the biggest fears parents can have is thinking that they can’t possibly love another baby the way they love their firstborn. It can seem unfathomable. Of course, everyone who has been there says that the heart grows and expands in a way you didn’t think was possible. And, of course, they were exactly right.
When Margot was born, Stella had been an only child for close to four years. We knew she was old enough to remember what it was like to be the center of attention, and it would be a big change of pace for her. Fortunately for us, she was so excited to welcome her new sister that she took everything in stride. And she loves her so darn much.
Still, their age difference is enough that there are many things Stella is wanting and able to do that Margot can’t do quite yet. And that’s why we’ve made it a focus to do special one-on-one things with Stella. About a month after Margot was born, Zack took Stella to a special daddy-daughter dance event at play. in East Lansing. He also took her to see Paw Patrol Live at Wharton Center.
Once Margot was big enough for me to be able to leave her for short periods of time, I would do things like take Stella to get her nails done at the salon, or go see a dance performance. Most recently, we had our special date to see “The Lion King” musical together.
And this week, Margot and I are now getting our turn to have a lot of special one-on-one time while Stella is up north with my in-laws.
A year and a half after becoming a mom of two, I have realized that while I love doing things all together as a family, there is really something to be said for this one-on-one time.