I would like to dedicate a post to Giovanni today. He does not have therapists coming to the house to play with him, and in baby class we discuss Dominic’s progress more than his. Doctors appointments are often more about his brother, or sometimes they are entirely about his brother. He may not notice it now, but in years to come I’m sure he will, and I’m also sure that it will be something we need to handle with care. 

Giovanni and I share a special bond. Everyone says he looks just like me, and Giovanni has nursed since day one, so he and I have  always had that. He is often referred to as a mama’s boy because he likes to be with me and sometimes I’m the only who can bring him comfort and calm. As a newborn, he was fussier than his brother, but he has always been a wonderful baby, so curious and funny. As he has gotten older, he definitely has a mischievous streak and lots of energy. He is a very busy guy and has lots to do — those toys aren’t going to play with themselves. He loves to pull himself up on the baby gates, knock down towers of blocks that we build up for his knocking down pleasure, and he really enjoys pretending to read books. That’s right, he doesn’t like being read to these days because he can hold his own book and read to himself. He makes us laugh and has the sweetest chubby cheeks around. His gummy smile can stop you dead in your tracks. 

Giovanni, if you were to read this one day, here is what I would like for you to know. You are everything to us. You were put here in this world to bring smiles, laughter and joy. You, and you alone, are special. Is it wonderful that you have a twin? Of course! Is it wonderful that you are your brother’s best friend and teacher? Yes! But YOU are enough. I will always cherish my quiet moments alone with you, when I held you close and smelled your head while kissing you. I will always be grateful that I was able to nurse you and know what it felt like to feed you and have that bond. Just because we often have to give a little more time and energy to your brother does not mean that we do not want to spend it with you. Life is never easy and straightforward, and sometimes we will make mistakes, but no matter what, we love you. Our lives are defined by what we do and how we live, so we will always be intentional and loving with our words and actions. Please know that we are doing our best and that we cannot imagine our lives without you. You make life so much better.

xo