I love watching the different relationships grow between the kids.  Each relationship has unique experiences that make it special and I love seeing how each one develops.

Aiden and Caileigh remain extremely close.  They tell each other everything, run to each other with exciting or upsetting news, and find ways to work things out when it is tough.  They spend the most time together as their day is not interrupted by naps.  They play together, school together and genuinely enjoy each other's company.

Although they have always been an adventurous duo, I would say that more often than not, Mikayla is right there, alongside them.  Mikayla is now most often referred to as one of the big kids and gets included in special outings and activities.  She, for the most part, takes this privilege seriously and tries to hold her own.  She definitely adds spice and humor to their play.  She also gives Aiden and Caileigh opportunities for creative problem solving as she is not one to conform to a group!

Aiden and Caileigh have both become extremely helpful in nurturing and caring for the boys.  They love to get them out of their cribs, get them snacks, read to them and be an extra set of eyes for me.  One way that they like to get involved is during the bedtime routine.  Caileigh loves when they sit on her lap and listen to a story.  Sometimes her lap is not quite big enough for both, but they usually find a way to work it out.  Throughout the day they give each other hugs and kisses and it never fails to warm my heart.

Mikayla and the boys can often be found playing together. She loves to try and mother them but they are fiercely independent and can easily push her away with one quick arm movement.  The three of them all weigh roughly the same and they are gaining on height.  If it weren't for the hair discrepancy, you could almost call them triplets.

 Both Mikayla and Caileigh have been exploring all things "girl" lately.  They enjoy dress up, dancing, tea parties and house. They both have strong personalities so they do struggle with who leads the play,  Caileigh often trying to find a compromise and Mikayla enjoying the reaction of standing strong to her own ways.  Never dull!

  I find when Aiden and Mikayla play together, it usually involves wrestling.  Mikayla loves rough play and she can take it like a pro! One day, Caileigh was out with Sean and it allowed Aiden and Mikayla to play together.  They got along beautifully and really enjoyed playing elaborate, dramatic games.  Aiden's care giving side came out and he did a fantastic job of balancing his firm and patient sides.

Five very different kids, with all unique personalities, finding a way to connect and grow close.  Watching this unfold is one of my favorite areas of motherhood.  I could definitely do without the arguments and fighting, however, I can say that the good moments, definitely outweigh the bad.

 And what a privilege to take everything we learn from each other, and learn how to care and get along with others.  Family and friends are such a gift to life.