When we found out we were having twins (when our firstborn was only about eight months old), we weren't sure what to expect. When we found out they were identical after birth, we wondered even more. It's so funny to see the ways that they are very much alike and then also see the ways that they are very much different.
I can remember being amazed to see them laying in their shared crib in the exact same positions - head turned the same way, arms up above their heads in the exact same positions. It was literally like a mirror image at times, especially if we were crazy enough to put them in the same outfit (and we had many, many same outfits thanks to my baby shower and all the nice friends and relatives who bought clothes). I also remember watching them in their swings, again with heads turned the same way and even sucking on the same thumb. Just like last night, when I laid down with them for a few minutes before bed, and both curled up next to me in the exact same way - laying on their backs, kicking their legs onto the pillows, sucking the same left thumb and using their right hand to try to get me to stroke their face with my hands (something both have always loved when they're tired). But those moments are becoming fewer and further in between.
Usually I'm struck by the different personalities. Xander is usually outgoing and not afraid to push back when tormented (Hello, Connor!). Sawyer usually keeps to himself and often will walk away from conflict, unless it's when he's organizing something - then you better watch out! Xander is fearless and just takes off at anything, whether it's climbing stairs or playing on the play set or just taking off down the driveway if you're not careful. Sawyer is more likely to reach out for your hand or reach up to be carried in new situations. Both are alternately loving, wanting to be held and kissed, and then standoffish, wanting a quick hug and then just as quickly wanting to be let go. They usually alternate though, so I always have at least one who likes to cuddle, thank goodness!
It's just so amazing to watch them as they grow up, to watch them interact with their older brother and with the world. There are of course little frustrations and simply bad days of being the stay-at-home parent, but there are also all the wonderful moments of watching your boys as they grow up into the individuals that they're going to be. What a fun ride (most of the time)!
