Sunday, April 18, 2010

Brennan and Tanner

Tanner, our second child, will be 6 years old in August. We have talked to him about Brennan having Down syndrome, but he has never shown that he really understands what Down syndrome means. He did recently ask "if Brennan is 2 years old, why is he still a baby?" He has also asked me if Brennan is the most special baby. So, he's definitely trying to figure things out in his own way. Jenna and Parker are more hands-on with Brennan, which often leaves Tanner with less opportunity to play with him. Yet they still have a special kind of relationship. Brennan will often hold his arms out to Tanner and Tanner will stop whatever he's doing and go to Brennan and they give each other the biggest, longest hugs. They are some of the sweetest brotherly moments.
Recently, Tanner had a friend over to play. All the kids were playing while I fixed lunch. When I looked over, I saw Tanner with a very serious look on his face. Then he looked at his friend and said "if you ever say that about my baby brother, I won't be your friend anymore." I hadn't heard what the friend had said but was so incredibly proud of him. As I see Tanner's character and personality develop, I see that he's a boy who is quick with a compliment, says "I love you" without being solicited, cares about other peoples feelings, and sticks up for his baby brother. I'm so incredibly proud!

6 comments:

The Paskins Family said...

Beautiful Sharon! I truly hope Cody and Nate have the same kind of sweet relationship.

Monica Crumley said...

Oh that is so sweet! Tanner is an awesome brother! I love how protective he was of Brennan, too. Nothing sweeter than brotherly love and standing up for those you love.

Shauna Yule Brasseur said...

There are few things better in the world than a Tanner hug!

Anne and Whitney: Up, Down and All Around said...

What a WONDERFUL older brother Tanner is for Brennan!!! I love the pictures of them hugging :) Thanks for sharing the story about the interaction between Tanner and his friend, Tanner is teaching his friends such great life lessons too by being Brennan's older brother!

Emily said...

Oh... that is precious! You have every right to be a proud Mommy! So very sweet!

mauimom said...

That makes my heart happy...what a awesome big brother!