This is absolutely my favorite 'children's' book of all times! As parents we have baby books/calendars/journals to make sure we note the "First times" such as baby's first steps, first words, first tooth, etc. So what if it's the "last?" Perhaps the last time you have to help them dress or hold their bottle or rock them at night? There is so much that we take for granted though, particularly when it comes to our beautiful blessings. I know from personal experience. I look at my 17 year-old and go "WOW, she's eight months away from being a legal adult. *Insert scream here*
My 13 year-old has a similar effect on me when I look at her baby or toddler pictures and then I see how she, too, is turning into quite a beautiful young lady. All I really know about this "raising baby stuff" is that my own mom was right: They won't stay little long. My mom used to have a saying, "Right now they're under your feet, but one day they will be on your heart." I didn't get that for a long time. I thought, yeah, ok, Momma wisdom. Unfortunately, she was so very right.
See, I have thought for so long that I have been in control. I made sure my kids were fed, behaved appropriately, went to church, did their chores and homework, nurtured, etc. etc. etc. However, I have NEVER been in control. God has always provided. It is Him who has provided a hedge of protection. It is Him who has given me the resources to make wise, necessary decisions. So, just when I thought I had this thing down, I realized I had it all wrong.
We are now at the point where I have to allow them to make decisions, let them fall, and let them fly. He will always have them in the palm of His hand. No matter what happens in life, they have always been His and only mine to guide on this earth, for they are His children.
So, when you are thinking that the tots are "getting on your nerves" or "I can't wait for school to start" take the time to enjoy and really get to know your kids. Why? Because, instead of a "first" milestone, it may be the last time. At lunch today, we were discussing baby times, and how my 13 year-old used to say "my pocket purse" when she was younger (like 4 and 5). She doesn't remember, but it is something I will never forget. With that said, be careful to enjoy each moment, because you never know when another "first" will take its place.
Blessings to you!
Pam
You got me with this one! I have been feeling like time is just moving too darn fast!! My youngest just turned 7 and I really don't know where the time went!! It is all so precious and such a blessing, it's great to remember that even on the days when they are driving you nuts it's all a gift! Thanks for the reminder! Great to find you on voiceBoks! I'm now happily following back!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind words and the follow :) I'm so glad you like it!
ReplyDeleteIt is super hard some days to watch them go do those "firsts." This was my younger daughter's first year of middle school. *Insert another scream here lol*
We will definitely have things worth battling, but as you already know, most of the "stuff" you will laugh at later!
Blessings to you and your crew!
Though I don't have children of my own, I do sit back and watch those I have helped raise from birth an now the oldest is 32 to 18. Time does fly savor every moment.
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