I’m sure you’ve seen it all over social media. November is the month of thankfulness, so each day is dedicated to something you’re thankful for. I’ve decided to jump on this bandwagon, because I’m not sure I ever adequately express my gratitude for the things I’ve been blessed with in my life.
Today is November 3rd, and the first three things I’m thankful for are my brothers.
I had not yet turned three when Tyler Ray was born, so I don’t remember much of his baby years, except from what I see in old family photo albums. However, as the older sister, I loved him to death, but I was obliged to pick on him as he grew up. I remember everyone telling me that I needed to be nice, because someday he would be bigger than me. I just laughed. There was no way that my little brother would be bigger than me. Well, here we are today, and he stands about 6″ taller than I am, and he could easily knock me to the ground if he wanted to. Behind his rockstar persona is the most wonderful heart of gold I’ve ever met. He’s strong and sweet, caring and determined. He’s never really had it easy, and I’m thankful every day to have him in my life.
When Evan Thomas was born, I was old enough to know what was going on. I was able to help raise him, although I use that phrase pretty loosely. I changed his diapers, I fed him bottles, and I got puked on more times that I can count. But I loved him instantly. He was chubby and goofy with his face full of freckles. As he grew, he began to develop his own personality. He’s smart and creative, and he’s scattered and focused all at the same time. He has finally reached the age when he can engage in real conversations with me. He can tell me about his day, and the things that make him happy and make him sad. I desperately wish it was appropriate for ten-year-olds to have cell phones so I could talk to him all the time, but since it’s not, I take advantage of every minute I’m home with him.
To be quite honest, when I was told that Aron Kamer was on his way, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. I didn’t know how my family would be able to afford another baby, but at that age, I didn’t really know anything, and I was only concerned that I wouldn’t be able to spend as much money when back to school shopping. It was selfish, I’ll admit, and it took me a week or two to come around to the idea of sharing my home with another baby who would cry in the middle of the night. After all, Evan had just grown out of that stage. But when he showed up, I knew I had been very, very wrong. He was the sweetest baby, and he was truly adorable. He loved me right away, and I loved him. Now, that little boy is seven, and he won’t be little much longer. He’s social and beautiful, with crooked teeth and hair that matches mine. He plays with my hair and holds my hand with his chubby, sticky fingers. He’s exactly what I imagine my dad was like as a child, and I can’t wait to see him grow up into a wonderful man.
These boys have crafted who I am as a woman today, each in their own special way. I’m so proud to be your sister, and I love you more than you’ll ever know.
Tiny Tales 