Its hard to be a parent

I remember vividly the birth of my first daughter, Isabelle. The first time we made eye contact. The first time she uttered "daddy", the first step that she took. It seemed like all of these just happened recently. Those are memories that will never falter in my mind. The feelings of excitement and anticipation each time i bring my wife for antenatal checkup to see her growing with each passing month. That has got to be the happiest moment in my life. Even today, whenever i think about it, it never fails to bring out a smile in me.
However from a cheerful and happy girl, of late i noticed her character seemed to have changed. She is more quiet, reserved, and a little disobedient. It all started after the birth of my second daughter, Natalie. Isabelle's love for her sister is unquestionable, as she longs for her little sister to play with her, hug her every night before bedtime, or even a simple a simple peck on the cheek before leaving for school. Until today, I have not seen any form of jealousy from Isabelle, now that everyone's attention goes to Natalie. Her maternal and paternal grandparents who all these while paid so much attention to her now divert their attention to Natalie. Despite that, she still loves her little sister.
It broke my heart when she asked me why nobody seemed to play with her anymore. Why nobody seemed to concern for her nowadays. She felt neglected. I often ask her to talk to me freely on how she feels, what goes on in her mind, what she likes or dislikes.
I felt pity for her as i can see the contrast on the way she was treated prior compared to present. She needs attention, hence, subconsciously, she does things whether good or not, just to get it. Its normal human psychology.
Since the birth of Natalie, the changes in Isabelle is so marked that at present, she feels insecure and often unwanted. Seriously, I don't blame her for feeling that way. Non of her maternal or paternal grandparents play with her anymore! All attention goes to the cheeky second daughter of mine. Don't get me wrong, I love Natalie too, but I love both of them equally, and I spend equal time between both of them.

 

Isabelle's heart is genuine. Her love for her little sister Natalie is unquestionable. 

 

Isabelle, don't you know that you are the apple of daddy's eye?

 

 The once cheerful, and always happy Isabelle Wan....

 

now has changed so much. It hurts daddy to see you feeling down. Don't you know you have a special place in daddy's heart?

 

Daddy wants to see you being your old self again....

 

You'll always be daddy's little darling baby....

 

Always remember that, Isabelle....

 

You are always daddy's sweetheart.....