Friday, August 03, 2007

Thoughts

Tonight is the monthly First Friday gathering and I am not there. Michael has started his new job and was scheduled tonight and I had family in town. My parents, my sister and her 3 kids have been here since Tuesday and its been nice. The plan was to have mom or Kelly go with me but we went to Newnan Ga to eat with more family.

Anyway, the point of this post. I have spent the majority of the last few days with Janie, Seth and Owen who are 6,4, and 2. Oh I had fun, but 3 kids is a lot of work.

Do you remember the book a few years ago that said something about It Takes a Village to Raise a Child? I think I might go find it and read it.

What I learned this week was that every moment I spend with a child has a chance of impacting their life. There is a chance that a conversation that I have with them may be remembered for years to come. I saw a glimpse of parenting this week. I spent time with my nieces and nephews immediately after birth and have watched them grow up. There is so much more than playtime and snuggles (which would be a cool name for a blog, BTW). Seth and Janie remember conversations from months ago. They remember things we laughed at together and things that made us sad. As a parent, you are responsible for everything about this child whether its the physical, emotional, spiritual or social development. It was just a wow moment. These children are awesome and I have learned a lot from them and their mom. I also learned a very unusual arrangement of Away in a Manger but we will discuss this later.

Perhaps I think of the memories I had of childhood and how they came to be. Certain memories were not planned events but I remember smells, tastes, the weather.
I remember staying at hotels and seeing horses across the street. I remember so many little things that are so important because they are mine. I can almost remember every Christmas. Oh how I love that holiday. Be warned, I really love the season. Its the moments that are natural that create the greatest memories. Enjoy every snuggle. Embrace those happy times, the rocking, the hugs, the vacations, the first day of schools, family date nights. Treasure every experience. I wish I lived closer to my nieces and nephews as I would love to a part of these moments and in a small way, I know I am.

As Michael and I embark on this wonderful experience, we have made so many friends. It has just been incredible. I can't wait to see Michael with her. I just can not fathom how much responsibility this is going to be. Mind you, I am ready for it. Our world will change completely the day we get that referral but gosh how exciting is this. I can not wait to shower her with love and memories.
Next time Janie asks me what we are going to do, I will simply say, "We are going to make a memory".!!!

Every person that comes in contact with LynnMarie has the ability to influence some part of her life.

Is this a crazy post? Am I confusing you? I am just writing my thoughts down here. God gives you a child and what a HUGE responsibility it is. When I think of the sacrifice God made for me, I am truly speechless. I love this adventure I am on and what it is doing to my mind and heart! LynnMarie will be the greatest gift besides the gift of eternal life and we will do our best to raise her and love her unconditionally.

LynnMarie will be loved and prayed for by many friends and family, including my blogging friends.

16 comments:

Donna said...

What a thoughtful post about being a parent. Yes, it is a tough job-BUT it is absolutely the best job in the world!! You are going to be a great mom :)

Middle-Aged Moi said...

No, that was NOT a crazy post at all! It is so true, that we should treasure the little things!

Mommy Spice said...

You are absolutely right. You never know what kids will remember. Everything you do or say...they watch and listen. It is so wonderful making memories, but you never know what will stay with them as they get older. I will love hearing of Spicy Girl's memories. Unfortunately, sometimes you get a bit irritated, and hope they don't remember your occasional "ugly" attitude. Yes, it happens.

OziMum said...

Very thought provoking! Yes it is a lot of work, but the most rewarding that you'll ever encounter!

Don and Be said...

I have intentionally been trying to connect more with kids at my church - hopefully, I can impact them in a positive way.

Elise said...

It is lovely post and you are so right about it is so much more but sooooo worth it!

Roy and Lori said...

You and Michael will be
great parents! I hope
things speed up and it
will happen soon for
the two of you! Have a
great weekend!

Abby's Mom said...

Very true and something to think about. Cool post :)

Heather said...

awe...you'll both be GREAT parents!

Heather said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Shelly and Family said...

Wow...what I beautiful post! You are so right...about it takes a village to raise a child! (I don't know what I would do if I didn't have all my family & friends support)

redmaryjanes said...

It seems overwhelming, and sometimes parenthood is, but you will be fine. You will be a beautiful and loving mother. It is all the Lord's will, so do not be afraid. He is bringing this child into the world and giving her to you. It is His will.

Steffie B. said...

beautiful post Amy! ;)

Lisa said...

What a great post! You really do learn to enjoy the little things and it is amazing what they remember!

Jill and Jaap said...

no, not crazy at all! And not confusing! Totally understand where you are coming from!

Gail said...

Just stumbled on your blog.
Great post!
LynnMarie will be a blessing to you and you a blessing to her.
Parenting can be stressful at times but I wouldn't change a thing.
Sounds like you are going to be a great mommy!