Big Sister!

Psalm 139:13-15
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

On April 27th, we welcomed our new grandchild, Savannah Jane, into the world!  We are overjoyed that she is here and that her mother, my daughter, Sarah, made it through her long, but successful, labor.

In the months prior to Savannah's arrival, we spend innumerable hours preparing Virginia Rose for the appearance of her baby sister.  She has been an only child for almost four years, so we anticipate the possibilities for jealousy and resentment on her part.  We want Virginia to love her little sister, knowing she, too, is fearfully and wonderfully made.

We read books about being the big sister (or brother), have talks about how important she will be in her baby sister's life, and how she can be such a help to her mom and dad.  And, Sarah invites Virginia to talk to the tummy so the unborn one can become familiar with her sibling's voice.

Virginia is prepped and primed!

As you can read here, I promise Virginia to take her to the toy store once sister arrives so she can get a toy for herself and one for the baby.  My mother wants in on the act and asks me to buy something for both children on her behalf.  As we are driving to the store, I'm pondering what I could purchase that wouldn't be impulsive or unnecessary in honoring Mom's request.  Out of the blue, the idea hits!

"Virginia," I say, "would you like to have a T-shirt that says "Big Sister" on it?"

She beams.  "Yes, Gammie."

"Good!  We'll look for one at the toy store while we're there."

Regrettably, though, the store doesn't carry baby or toddler clothing, so we come away empty in that department.  However, we are successful in finding some gifts for sister and some new crayons and activity books for Virginia.

My husband, Danny, learns his granddaughter wants this particular T-shirt.  He is shopping for some last minute items at Kohl's for his upcoming trip to Washington, D. C., and comes across the perfect one for sweet Virginia.  Darling, isn't it?

Almost as darling as she is!

~

How did you react to the birth of a sibling?  Were you accepting?  Jealous?  What were the reactions of your children like when a new brother or sister came on the scene?

Prayer:  Dear Father, You have loved us even before the moment we were conceived.  You knit us with care in our mother's womb.  You watch over us every day of our lives.  We thank You for the gift of new life, new love, and new promise.  In Jesus' name, amen.