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"Enjoy them now, because before you know it, they'll be grown and out of the house." I hear this quite often. When I am in the thick of littles it is often difficult to remember the "enjoy" part and to focus more, instead on the "survive" part. However, I think if I throw this advice to the wind, I will miss out on the everyday blessings that God intends to give me. Children are a blessing. I have no doubt of that in my mind and in my heart. But, oftentimes when that alarm goes off in the morning and I take off running, that fact gets lost in the shuffle. It is of utmost importance that I hear these words of wisdom and put them into practice. God has placed these experienced mama's in my life for a reason. They know the joys of watching children grow into beautiful capable adults. They also remember the joys (and work) of having all little ones. And really, the work will pass, but the love and attention I give now will have lasting effects. Although wiping tables (3+ times a day), sweeping (3+ times a day) and cooking (3+ times a day) can be grueling at times, I should focus on the why of it and not the blah of it. There are a few ways I am learning to do this. I am not through it yet, so I in no way am claiming to be an expert. But, my oldest is six and my sixth baby is on the way, so I have been kind of forced into some fast forward learning. So here are a few of my thoughts on how to go from just surviving to enjoying them now. * include them in the work. Yes, it takes longer and the result is most often less than perfect, but well worth your effort. Instead of shuffling them off and "getting them out from under foot" Let them join in. They love it! They love the time with you and the responsibility of being a helper. They even just love pulling up a chair and watching. Now, to avoid overload, I give them turns and let them help one at a time. This also provides the opportunity to spend some focused time on one child. I have also learned that I enjoy my work more when I have someone to share it with. * When they wake up, smile. This most likely require you being awake already. Because, I know it is hard to smile when being awoken for five requests for snacks (yes, they snack before breakfast, more on that latter). But, if I am awake and ready to greet them, I smile and let them know how happy I am to see them. I try to take this opportunity to cuddle and hug as well. And, even if I am still in bed, I smile anyway and invite them up for some snuggling. * Be a kid. You have got to admit it, kids are fun.They seem to be able to turn just about anything they are doing into a hooping hollering good time. Take time for pillow fights and wresting matches. Build a Lego castle or stage a mini car race. Even just run around the yard screaming for no good reason. Be fun! Don't be a bump on the log and send the "noise" outside so you can enjoy yourself. I need to take this bit of advice more often. Before I had my own children, playing with little kids was the ULTIMATE! I have lost this along the way and must find it, ideas? Well, that's all I have got for now, because, I need to go enjoy some short people that are And check out help for growing families at ship full o' pirates! |
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Posted by Anonymous
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