One of the perks of twin parenthood is that in addition to watching your child grow as an individual, you get to watch how the way they interact and relate to each other evolves as well. (Please note: the term “perk” doesn’t necessarily describe all stages of these interactions). In observing the most recent, and most, um, aggressive stage of this development, I have been reflecting on the ones that have come before.

Roommates. Like I have no other experience with pregnancy other than carrying twins, my boys have never experienced a “room of their own.” And there was definitely jostling for position. In the end, Abel took a firm stance and would not budge from his role as first born, allowing Calvin to enjoy weeks of free roaming, or at least that’s how it felt to me, and I’m sure to Abel too.

Gravitation. From as early as their first week home, when they were so tiny that they could both easily be held with one arm, they have been drawn towards each other. A head or hand on a shoulder, and clasped hands while sleeping, this could definitely be the sweetest stage.

Recognition. Sometime after they became at least slightly mobile, they would go from doing their own thing, to suddenly locking in on each other and lighting up. It was like, “Oh, I know you!” and they would babble, laugh, or happily scream at each other.  Okay, maybe this stage was the sweetest.

Which brings us to now…

Mine! After months of pretty peaceful parallel play, they have become increasingly competitive for toys, random objects now declared toys, and attention. It certainly has been a learning experience for me. For example, did you know that blue is the only acceptable color for a toy ball, and the identical green one is garbage? Or that it is impossible to rock a child to sleep while the other is trying to pull him off your lap by his legs to secure this prime position? It is certainly interesting to watch them be fully aware of the other, and to assert their personality and demands. And while I certainly don’t want to rush any stage of their life and relationship, I can’t help but wonder what the next one will bring.  Please God, let it be sharing.

Watch out, Calvin!