My youngest son, the baby of the family is 4. He is at that adorable age of wonder, optimism, curiosity and whitty commentary. Even though he seems to always time his potty breaks the minute we need to start eating dinner, decides to "decorate" my personal journal with unrestrained artistic enthusiam and sneaks snacks up to my bedroom where he covertly watches Disney channel during school hours, there is a charm about him which makes me smile and treasure even the bad moments. Perhaps it is old age, perhaps it is my eldest children's old age or perhaps I am finally learning to relax in my parenting just a bit, but I found myself relishing in the joy and comedy of the age of four the other day.
I was sitting at the computer trying to catch up on emails and free-lance writing jobs when Aidan walked into the room. Disregarding my seemingly busy workload he instantly started chatting with me. My instant reaction was annoyance thinking, "When can I ever get anything done". My second thought was, "Pay attention Mom, because some day you will miss this little boy". The second thought won out as I let Aidan interrupt my thoughts and work to show me how I too could become an expert Kids Knex builder in just three easy lessons. I pretended to fumble with the instructions and he patiently guided me through the process. His tiny fingers holding mine and gently moving the pieces into place. "Good job Mommy!" he announced as I "conquered" my first creation. He loved being my teacher and was so proud of his student.
I looked in his eyes and tried to memorize that twinkle, the curve of his face and adorable smile. I had had a particularly difficult week and this little bundle of energy was offering up a bounty of sincere, loving encouragement. My life suddenly didn't seem so overwhelming or difficult. I was reminded that I have a four year old, who loved me and thinks I "hung the moon" several times over. This little interruption to my busy evening had slowed my thoughts enough to look around and count myself blessed, not stressed.
Since I also have three teenagers I am trying to soak up the 4 year old spirit to carry me through. Unfortunately, as the mother of teens I am reminded on a daily basis that the rose colored glasses are off. Somewhere between age 9 and 10 their glasses were lost and I became hugely flawed. Now there are days I fear I can do nothing right no matter what my motives. I know it is not a true interpretation of my mothering skills, but I do occasionally miss the dedicated wonder of a 4 year old which I used to enjoy from all when they were young.
I often wonder at what God was thinking when He chose to bless me with six kids. When I struggle keeping up with the adjustment of setting my college aged daughter free while discussing the inappropriateness of potty talk with my four year old, I really wonder. But, it is times of reflection like these that I realize I am really the lucky one. I get to watch both ends of the childhood spectrum at once. I stand in awe many times at how quickly time passes and sigh deeply. Today, however, I am thankful for my four year old, because he slows it down just a bit for me everyday.
Comments
Oct. 14, 2008 - Couldn't agree more
Posted by AussieinAmerica
I love what you said here. I feel the same way.
It is so important to focus on our children in this way. I love how you took the time to look at your little one and soak it all up. Sometimes it is so easy to be too busy for such moments...but in the end, we will be so glad we took the time to cherish them...to find delight them.
Thank so much for visiting my blog. I really enjoyed your comment.
I hope you have a great day,
Stacy
Oct. 14, 2008 - The 4's
Posted by Mom
You have to stop writing these tear jerkers. LOL How I wish I had that four year old little girl again for just a couple days. I miss her but then I see the wonderful young woman she has become and I am proud.
Nov. 17, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by WaitingontheLord
I have so enjoyed your blog! I think I'll go up and give my 4-year-old, and the other 4 kiddos, another kiss while they sleep.