We've been open and honest with her since WE knew we were pregnant. Early on she was never interested in any talk about the new baby. She would get attention-seeking-naughty anytime anyone brought up her baby sister, gave the baby a gift or looked at the ultrasound photos or videos.
She IS my BABY and I worry about her alot! Our lives are going to change drastically in about 7 weeks and I sort of know what I'm in for and I'm not ready....she has no clue!
In the last few weeks she's come a long way! Last week we babysat Baby Natalie and she did GREAT! We also went to the sibling class at the hospital. OH MY GOODNESS....this girl is at home in a hospital room. It was crazy to watch her eyes light up when we walked into the maternity room and she said, "wow, I really like it in here!". It's amazing how comfortable she really is in a hospital and it will be interesting to watch as she gets older and her need for healthcare is now about like any other kiddo! She learned the three rules of being a big sister and we review them!
We drive by the hospital where I will be and we remind her how she was born there and that's where I will be and her baby sister will be born there as well and she gets to come visit! A few months ago we were driving to school and she said, "Mommy, I don't know how to get to the hospital to see you when you have the baby". I said, "Ella, do you DRIVE now?". She said, "No, but I NEED to know how to get there!!!". At least now she KNOWS where and she knows one of her grandma's will be taking her back and forth!
As we've been getting out more and more of the baby stuff and the baby room is getting closer to ready, she's been practicing more with her "babies". She's been taking care of me (she knows I struggle to get off the couch and she "helps") and she's been extra-nurturing to her friends younger siblings.
Today she got a birthday card in the mail. It had a 4 on the outside and she was so proud. She "read" the inside to me, "Ella is going to be 4 and she's going to be a big sister". I almost cried! She's READY and I couldn't be more proud! That is not what it said at all, but we've told her for months that the baby will arrive sometime after she turns 4!
I love you Miss Ella! You'll always be my baby and I can't wait for you to experience the joy and love of a sister and I'm glad you'll have someone who understands when you need to complain about your crazy mom someday!
