If you've met me, you know I often joke about time standing still when you have little ones. People with older kids always tell me "enjoy it, it goes by so fast". I quickly respond "you're full of shit, this has been the longest seven years of my LIFE. I haven't had a full nights sleep since 2010!!"
But, this summer has made me start believing them....
Three kids in three and a half years felt like a lot. It felt like someone always needed me. Someone was always yelling "MMMMOOOOMMMMMYYYYY!" Someone was always hungry, tired or crying. The record for silence in my household was about 90 seconds back in 2014.
But this summer has been different. My kids have been HAPPY. They get along. They SLEEP (at least some of the nights). They can all talk and none of them shit in their pants anymore. They can actually get their own snacks and fill up their own sippy cup. THANK YOU JESUS!
My middle child turns 5 this week and it's got me all bent out of shape. Maybe it's because she's my twin in every aspect of life which, by default, makes her my biggest challenge. There is something so sobering about seeing ourselves through the actions and emotions of our children. It's a reminder about how important this role is that we play as parents. How we need to be so careful and intentional and thoughtful if we want them to carry forward our wonderful attributes and leave the negative ones behind.
My sweet little Sam Sam. You are the ultimate straight shooter. You wear your emotions on your sleeve. Your anger may be big, but your love and happiness are bigger. Your loyalty is fierce and you will do anything to stand up for people you love. You're so smart yet so hesitant to reveal it. You will never answer a question without being certain that it's the right answer. You are so studious. As if you think all the answers in life can be learned in a book. You are so much like me. From your mischievous ways to your freckle sprinkled nose. Sometimes I think I catch a glimpse of insecurities in your eyes. Whether it's meeting new friends or being a new situation. I reassure you that you're a big girl and that you can handle anything you put your mind to. And the mere suggestion of that power is enough to make you believe it. I pray that you never lose that belief in yourself. I pray that you never forget that your incredible smile and your thoughtfulness has the power to change the world. I pray that you will always recognize the incredible gifts you've been given and use them to make the world a better place. Don't let anyone stifle your light, Sweet Sam Sam.
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