Reality

The reality of having four kids within three and a half years of each other is settling in. Everything is still going very well but I think the honeymoon period is over and reality is taking hold. Even with one more well behaved child there is just more toys to pick up, more clothes to wash, more food to make and more homework to get done. Luckily we got Jacob literally the day after Paxton's buys season ended so he has been around to help more.

There have been more than a few things that make this adoption different than a new born adoption. Some of them I think are easier and some are harder. I think the hardest so far is to try to figure out this little guy when I know so little about him. Even with my other kids, it can be hard to figure out what makes them tick. What works for rewards and punishments, what kind of food they like or don't like, when are they being dramatic and when do they genuinely need so lovin. That has been kind of difficult. In fact when we were in his little Sunday school class his teacher mentioned something about Utah and Jacob said "Oh, I've lived there before." I looked at him and said, "You have?" That was kind of eye opening.

I do have to say that I am so very proud of ALL of my kids. Jacob has been a trouper, putting up with new parents, siblings, friends, house, school and church. He has adjusted very well to being a big brother, something he has never had to be before. He did ask why Avery follows him around all the time and I said, "It is just because she is a little sister and she thinks you are so cool." He just nodded his head like that made complete sense. Shaylee, Bryce and Avery have welcomed him with open arms. There hasn't been any jealousy, fighting (beyond normal), tantrums or name calling. I am so proud of how these little bodies can love so unconditionally.