Reflections

As I sit thinking about all that has happened since my last blog update, I could write about how Amanda is waving, says "dada", wants to run with Abi in the worst way but can't get her balance yet, loves to "cruise" around tables or ottomans or just play outside, how she is so full of joy (what a fitting middle name for her).... or how Abi comes out with some of the funniest sentences these days, complete with manners (pleases, thank yous, yes/no sir, yes/no ma'am.... - example: "No I don't want an apple thank you daddy."), new words, how she LOVES to dance to any music she hears, has a new-found love for honking noses, making people laugh, always wanting to go see "kids", how eager she is to learn and just how much she takes in - such a sponge. However, what really strikes me as I process through the past year and the adventures that it held is that last portion - so eager to learn and take everything in.

One evening a few months back, I was putting Abi to bed and something was making her sad. When I asked her to use her words and tell mama how I could help, she did. Then I talked to her about "communication," never thinking she would care about a word so big (she is only 27 months). When she repeated the word after I explained what it meant, she said, "Nother one mama!" So we did a few more "big" words and she listened, took it all in, wanted to learn and understand. As I reflected on that conversation, I was reminded of how God wants that with us. He wants us to communicate with Him - to be eager to listen and learn. Oh to have the heart, eyes and passions of a child again. They are so fresh, still untainted by the world we live in. What a magical moment that was - for both of us.

Then we work on discipline - how to behave and obey. When I reach about the gazillionth time of saying the same thing over and over I think, "How many times, Lord, have you had to tell me the same thing over and over only for me to either not listen or do my own thing? How many times have you spoken to me when I have not listened or paid any attention? How many times have you tried to get my attention and I have been too distracted by something before me?" Then when there is a break through with Abi, there is a HUGE celebration! So much praise, high fives, kisses, hugs and excitement! How much more our Lord must feel when I finally reach a breakthrough with which He has been helping me for so long! How much joy and excitement He must have when I finally "get it." Parenting has given me a whole new awareness of God's presence in my life and His unfailing love and devotion to me. To be able to rest in His peace, comfort, love and celebration of life. There is no better place to be!

That is my Christmas prayer for all of you, that you truely remember, discover and embrace all that this Christmas celebration is all about - the Love that Christ has given us through His birth, life, death and risen spirit. When all else seems to be in shambles, there is still peace and comfort in the Lord's embrace. Embrace it. Embrace Him. Discover love in the little things. Enjoy the simplicity of cutting back. Embrace the celebration of life. Have a blessed Christmas!