Parenting is tough! Yep I am great at stating the obvious. Parenting an 18 year old and 4 year old twins and everyone in between can be a bit overwhelming some days. Our 18 year old just made his decision on where he is going to college and boy does that come with a lot of emotions. So happy and excited for him and so sad all at the same time that he is leaving. We have challenged all our kids to take an adventure during these next four years and well he took our advice. He is heading to California. People keep saying that is so far from Vermont. Yes it is, but if you knew my son you would understand when I say, but it is a lot closer than Africa, cause who knows after these next few years where he will be. So I will take California for now. While dealing with the emotions with our first born leaving we have these cracker jack of boys who keep me on my toes.
Sean was that same cracker jack who kept me on my toes and on my knees. He was a toughy. Strong willed, creative, smart, loving, did I say strong willed? But such a joy to watch grow and mature and become the young man he is today. He loves God. He cares for others, He loves to worship His God, and has a desire to share with others the hope that can only come from Him.
Parenting is tough. I know I already said that but it really is. I made so many mistakes. I lost my temper, let things go that should not have been let go of. Was not consistent when I should have been. Gave in because I did not want to hear anymore whining. Sometimes just went into my bedroom and shut my door because I could just not handle it anymore. Having 4 kids in 6 years was hard but Sean is 18 going off to college and doing well. I marvel. How did he make it? How did I make it?
You know that song just put one foot in front of the other. Thankfully with God, He and I did that. We just kept walking forward together. I look at Dawit and Israel and think keep making those investments in them. Teach them the little things like keeping their mouths closed while chewing and what lying is and what the truth is. Investment after investment. Praying for them and walking forward with them. Tickle them, laugh with them, make messes and have fun. Put a tray of baking soda out and have them experiment with colored vinegar. Just keep investing. I will continue to make mistakes and want to take back words that I wish I had not said. But I cannot look back and get stuck wishing things were different or that I handled things better because before long they will be graduating from high school and leaving to go on their great adventure.
Why am writing this? To encourage myself and others who are feeling a little tired and at their end. Just keep walking forward and if you know God, walk with Him. He has the strength to even carry us when we are too weary to walk. Parenting is tough but well worth the investment!!
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| A little baking soda and vinegar and yes they are still in their PJ's. |
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| Look mom it is bubbly. |
By the way, parenting is never perfected. After 18 years of being on this journey I am still learning and growing. Parenting is never boring.
From one imperfect mama to another, just keep moving forward!!
