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. |
From one imperfect mama to another, just keep moving forward!!
Thank you Stephanie, you always have great advise to share :-)
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful post, thanks Stephanie. How bittersweet about Sean. I am discovering, though my boys are still young, that letting go is one of the toughest aspects of parenting. What a journey we embark upon when we become parents! Blessings to all of you!
ReplyDeleteI think you are a perfect parent, Stephanie! And I'm not just saying that. I think a perfect parent is one who DOES give in (as long as it is just occasionally), one who USES not loses theirs temper :p (because soemtimes kids just need to know you have one if it needs to come out!)..now granted, this is coming from someone who does not have kids yet, but I had parents and I think there needs to be all this things that might feel "wrong". I am also stating this as someone who knows your kids and has spent one on one time with then even for just 30 min a few times a year. Your kids are respectful, caring, polite, engaging and honorable young adults in a society full of disrespect and negativity. I see LOTS of families every day and few hold up in public as well as yours do! Kids will drive their parents and their siblings crazy, but that's their job :p when they can go into public and act as kind kind citizens, then you know you have done your job and done it well!! You and Mike are such wonderful role models for them and honestly, for me as well. The last time you guys were in stands out boldly in my mind and I'll tell you why. When you and Katie walked into the back room, Mike stood up and gave you a kiss as we all laughed about the mix-up. And when you left he said he loved you and kissed you again on the forehead. Now, again, I see a lot of families come and go from the salon. There was something so genuine about your connection and love for eachother that you just don't see every day. Your kids do get to see that everyday and whether they kniw it or not, it is forming them into beautiful individuals who will grow up to continue sharing these traits. Now I know ive said little things before like this, but I really do mean it. You and Mike ARE "perfect" parents and ones that I look up to as well! Enjoy the rest of this beautiful day with your beautiful family :)
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