Holding Hands & Throwing Punches

Carson and Camila aren’t just siblings; they’re best friends, and watching them grow closer every day makes my heart so happy. Whether they’re building forts out of foam floor mats, coloring together, or just being together doing two separate things, they always find a way to be together. It’s like they’ve created their own little world, and they walk through it holding hands, and occasionally throwing punches.

I can already tell that when Camila starts school, she’ll be Carson’s protector. Even though she’s not even five yet (she will be on the 8th), she can’t stand the thought of him having a rough day or, worse, someone being mean to him. If Carson comes home upset, she gets upset too, she can't stand the thought of her big brother being sad. She may be wild, but when it comes to someone else hurting him, she's a puddle. She's  always ready to protect him from the world, even if she doesn’t quite understand it yet.

Carson, on the other hand, is the sensitive one—the kind of kid who wouldn’t hurt a fly—except for a spotted lanternfly, because, let’s be honest, those things are awful. His heart is huge, and he feels everything deeply, even if he doesn’t always show it. He’s the one who always listens (at least by the second time) or draws a cute little “pumpkin family” and proudly hangs it on the fridge. His love is gentle—shown in thoughtful gestures, soft smiles, and his calm presence, always caring, and genuine especially when it comes to his family.

Then there’s Camila Rae, my wild child. She’s curious, rambunctious, and silly as can be. While Carson moves with caution, Camila dives in headfirst. She’s always on the go, cooking her next pretend meal or redecorating one of the bedrooms. Camila shows her love in big ways—hugs that fill you with joy, kisses all over your face, and her classic “I love you, but…” before asking for something she knows she shouldn’t. It’s her way of buttering you up, and honestly, it works almost every time.

What I love most is that despite their differences, they’re so alike where it counts. They both care deeply—about each other and about us. Carson’s love is quiet and gentle, while Camila’s is sweet and expressive. But at the end of the day, they both just want to love and be loved. Carson will find you anywhere in the house, give you a hug, and then quietly walk away. Camila will come barreling through the door, throwing her arms around you, out of nowhere. Their hugs are the best part of my day.

Watching them grow together, seeing their personalities clash and blend at the same time, fills me with so much pride and happiness. “I made those” is what I always tell myself. They may be different in so many ways, but they share the same big hearts. That’s what really connects them, and I know their bond will only grow stronger as they get older. I am so lucky to witness it every day. It’s such a beautiful thing.