This morning during school, when I had James and Claire do the weather report, it was pretty cold out. Claire reported that we would need to wear our coats outside today. I was pleasantly surprised this afternoon to discover just how warm and how beautiful it turned out to be.
I called the kids to come with me after lunch, we were going to go outside. Ryan was still doing his school but I told him he could take a break. We needed to take advantage of the warmer air and sun.
The Lord has been reminding me lately just how fleeting these days are with my little ones and that I really need to start paying more attention to them. I admit I have been so selfish with my time, not spending as much quality time with them as I should. I have gotten so caught up with life and all it's demands.
Maybe it took being away from the three younger kiddos for two weeks for me to wake up, to realize the gifts that God has given me, to give me a fresh perspective.
I had forgotten to find joy in being their mother. I had forgotten how much fun it is to just be with them, to play. I ran with the boys and played soccer, looking like a crazy mom...breathless we ran and until our sides hurt. Oh it felt good. Bill joined in after a little while and it became a whole family affair. Look at their faces, they say it all. How can the family function if we don't enjoy one another?
I am trying to stop, be intentional, listen to what they are saying, laugh with them, play with them. I am seeing just how much God has blessed me with a great group of kids. They are funny and smart and full of so much love. I shared with a friend recently that I was struggling with one of our kids. She encouraged me to find something that this child is interested in and take interest in it too, find a way to connect with them. So that is what I have been trying to do.
After we played soccer and a little baseball I spread a big blanket on the ground. We brought out stacks of library books.
We rested, snuggled, and read and soaked up the warm rays of sunshine.
It was a very good afternoon, a gift.
I don't want to miss another moment. The days are flying by. Everyone says that before you know it they are gown.
Oh, that I not forget, in the chaos, in the throes of motherhood. Lord, teach me to number the days.
My thankful list continues:
#27 The sun and it's warmth on a November day
#28 Books
#29 soccer balls and little boys
#29 smiles
#30 laughter
#31 a husband who takes time to play
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