Joys

A friend of ours who had just come through a tough season made the comment in a recent email that she was not just surviving-she was thriving. I've been thinking so much about that. Our family, too, has been in survival mode. The past season of helping Silas to work through his anger, guarding our own hearts, and just learning how to parent three small children was hard...but we are THRIVING now, and I don't think my attitude has reflected that. Tony and I were talking about the JOYS of parenthood-relishing in each child and celebrating their unique qualities. When life gets chaotic, those blessings are overlooked at our house.

We took a trip to St. Louis this week to finish up some paperwork for our second adoption. This forced family time was great in making us slow down and really SEE our kids. Here are some of the JOYS we noted:

*Witnessing Silas' compassion come out when he sees others hurt-especially his momma!
*Mya's awesome attitude when she plays games-not caring if she wins or loses.
*Cale's cuddles-he give the best hugs!
*Hearing our kids sing and/or quote the Word of God.
*Mya's crazy hair and seeing how it fits her own sense of style.
*Silas' appreciation of ANYTHING I cook.
*Spending quiet afternoons reading chapter books with Cale.
*Seeing Mya carry frogs and power tools in her Cinderella purse.
*Hearing Cale reprimand his daddy for driving too fast.
*Constant Hugs/Kisses and I love you's from Silas.
*Mya's fetish to smell everything. :)
*Cale's love for people. He never meets a stranger, and he often bridges uncomfortable situations with love.
*Silas has great determination and will try many times before he asks for help or gives up.
*Seeing the motherly instincts God has given Mya. She loves babies!

Thank you God for entrusting us with your children! And help us to honor and cherish them with your love.