Sibling Stuff

This month has been a whirlwind of activity, sickness, new endeavors, new jobs and just general craziness. Amelia has been on a "Mommy" kick since I got back from my trip, which means Kieran has not gotten as much time with me as either of us would like.

Ken has started his own law practice, we both got sick, Kieran got sick, Mia got sick, we had my brother's birthday, Kieran's birthday and a lot of other crazy things. A few things come to mind since last I posted. Kieran (well, mostly me and Ken) raised $635 for the Carrie Murray Nature Center. Kieran's birthday party there was a blast - everyone who said they were going to come did (even with the snow). As a thank you for raising funds, Kieran received a vial of Iberian wolf fur. There are something like 300 of those wolves left in existence. He treasures that.

Here is he with Cupcake the snake. I have a photo of me & Mia holding the snake but it comes out sideways.

See?

Anyway, PJ (who works there and gave us a talk about animals) was the one who got the fur for Kieran. They were really impressed with his giving up gifts in order for the center to get the money.

So, that's Kieran's party. We've all been in somewhat of an ongoing state of sleep deprivation because of sickness (ours, the kids) and though I thought we'd finally come out of it, lo-and-behold last night Kieran had a nightmare that sent him upstairs to us. Ken had him sleep next to him all night (which is never a good night's sleep) and this morning we woke up late. After rushing through my shower and getting dressed, I hear Kieran downstairs in Mia's room. As I walk in her door, I see Mia on the floor, mostly naked with one sock on, Kieran's trying to get the other one on and he's already got clothes laid out for her. He's dressed himself and ready for school.

It was very sweet of him. He wanted to help because he knew that Ken and I were rushing around, late. Even after I was able to help, Kieran wanted to finish what he'd started by getting Mia's shirt on and I finished up with her pants, etc. Mia wanted Kieran to finish getting him dressed (she LOVES him and whatever Kieran is doing, she wants to do - hence the snake handling), but I was in a rush and couldn't wait - plus I think Kieran was ready for me to take over.

Even though he's been angry with her for bogarting my time, he thought enough to help her get dressed. I do hope this love continues throughout their lives. I know they'll piss each other off, that's normal, but underneath I hope there is always this type of love.

Happy 7th Birthday, Kieran!

You've grown so much in the past year it's unbelievable. You've got a better handle on your temper and your sassing (sorry, I believe you may have inherited those traits, though the sarcasm was taught). You also know yourself now. You know who you  like and who you don't, but still treat those you dislike with courtesy (mostly).

I know your little sister irritates you and you're feeling like she's stealing our time (she is, we won't lie), but you still manage to help out. This morning, for example, when I needed to walk the dog and she wouldn't let me go - there you were asking "Mia, want to play with me?" and then having her chase you around so Devin could get outside. Amazing.

You frustrate me, I won't lie. But it's only because I know just how smart you are. How capable you are and I want so much for you to do more than you think you can do. To stretch what's comfortable and be proud of what you accomplish. I'm always proud of you.

Seven years ago you were born and I sobbed at your 'curly' hair (forgive me, I was drugged). Today you are my little man - taking the world by storm.

Love you oodles and oodles, booger. Forever.