Growing Pains

We knew this would happen. For years we've watched our boys play together, grow up, and form new bonds with each other. From the beginning, Braylen and Kaleb were best buddies and roommates. Then, Kaleb and Aaron became roommates--and eventually, best buddies. Now, Aaron is finding out for the first time in his life what it feels like to play by himself.

Kaleb is growing weary of imaginary play with his younger brother. I can't blame him--he's 13 years old and in 7th grade. We knew this day would come. But Aaron didn't. He's cranky and lonely and just not himself these days. Derek and I don't really know how to help him through this. We can't force Kaleb to stay young for Aaron. We can't force Aaron to match Kaleb's maturity level and need for independence. They both need to find their new normal in the brotherhood, I guess.

Growing pains. Teenagers. Testosterone. Mood swings. I'm swimming in it over here.

March is hard. It's not winter and it's not spring. School routines are a drag, and yet, there's still a lot of work to be done to keep those grades up. Spring break is the LAST week of March this year. Didn't it used to be in the middle?

But Derek is on day shift. Better enjoy it while it lasts, cuz it won't last long! We have our health and plenty of reasons to be thankful. These growing pains will pass. Derek and I expect our older boys to bend their will at times to say yes to Aaron's requests. We expect Aaron to give his big brothers space, and learn to respect the boundaries they've set. We hope the relationships our boys build together now will carry through into their adult lives. We're trying to teach them that what they do in these moments matter for the ones that are to come.

And that is what's going on in our home right now. You know, it sure was more fun to write about the cute, funny things our sons did when they were little! :)

But we still have fun with them. It just sounds and looks different. When they wrestle I hear things like, "Why did you put my fingers in your pit hair?" And instead of playing with toys, they play Twister together. Which of course turns into more wrestling...boys!

Kaleb and Aaron giving Braylen a ride

What a crew

Aaron's rock project

Box of Valentine treats from Grammy & Grampy

Sugar cookies!!!

A plate for each boy

Aaron's 4th grade music program

American flag with plates!