Being a Big Sister

Any parent-to-be can’t help but worry (at least a little) about the great unknown of transitioning from one child to two.

In addition to logistics like sleeping arrangements, meltdown management, and nap juggling, there are the uncertainties of adding another person into the family dynamic.

As one parent explained it, you’re not just adding one child, you’re adding three relationships (mom-kid, dad-kid, and kid-kid). Mind you, that’s in addition to shaking up the three relationships you’ve already established…

But even with all that uncertainty hanging in the ether, my heart sings with the promise of two magical little words:

BIG SISTER

I myself am a big sis twice over—first when I was 2 and again when I was 12.

Becoming a sister is my first memory. That’s how integral sisterhood is to my life story and how I see myself as a person.

Speaking of which, here’s a great article on early childhood memories and why we lose (or keep) them.

It’s also influenced how I interact with friends, other family members, and even colleagues. It’s taught me about difference and acceptance, individuality and cooperation, unknowns and unconditional love.

All this and so much more is why I’m so thrilled to be able to give the experience of being a sister to my daughter.

Szaba, I hope you enjoy the title as much as I have, along with the lifetime of discovery that goes with it. May it bring you more joy, love, and wisdom than your heart can hold.