Proud Big Brothers

Adding a new member to our family has brought a monumental change into Jaden and Cody's lives. Overall, Jason and I have been so proud of the way our boys have handled this change. They have been so loving to Adley and very helpful around the house too. 

Grammy and Papa stayed at our home with Jaden and Cody while Jason, Adley and I were in the hospital. Both boys drew pictorial directions so that Grammy and Papa would know how to take care of them. Cody crossed off his pictures as they did each step together. He translated the pictures later for me as follows: eat breakfast, go to school, go to bed, playtime, go to bed, eat breakfast. 

Jaden's directions focused on the nighttime routine: give us a bath, brush our teeth, read us a story, put us to bed, and then you can go downstairs. 

The boys asked to hold Adley at least once a day after we brought her home from the hospital. They held her for very short periods of time (only a few minutes) but always very carefully. If Jaden and Cody ever left the house with Daddy, their first question when coming back home was, "Mommy, how's Adley doing?"

Big Brother Jaden

Big Brother Cody

One day recently I asked the boys what the hardest part about having a baby sister was. Without hesitation, they both responded, "When she cries!" Then I asked what the best part was. Jaden said, "Giving Adley hugs." Cody's response was, "Pushing her diapers down into the diaper genie." Ha! :)

Jaden and Cody love doing all they can to keep Adley happy. When Adley cries, the boys love bringing her stuffed animals or rattles to help calm her down. Their tactics often work!

One day, Cody and Jaden decided to entertain Adley by dancing along to the music on her bouncer.

Cody was convinced that little Adley starting dancing right along with them! :)

On Jaden and Cody's first day back to school after Adley's birth, we sent them with a photo book of pictures that they could show to their teachers and friends. Grammy took the boys to school this day, and she said that they were so excited and proud to share the photos! (This day also happened to be a PJ dress up day, in case you're wondering what the kids are all wearing.)

Ever since Adley's birth, the pictures that the boys have drawn at school and home have looked a little different. So precious to see the extra little family member that they are now including! :)

Cody's picture below sums it up pretty well. (Be sure to read his words in a snake-like pattern.)

Big Brothers Are Great!

We are so thankful that God has given our boys a smooth transition so far and pray that their love for and patience with Adley continues for a long, long time! :)