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sisters
It has rained for days here, but we get outside as fast as we can in between storms. Thankful for the rain, but missing our Florida sunshine.
Today, we made this sidewalk paint that took all of five minutes to make and provided over an hour of fun. Much needed fresh air for all of us.
Love watching this little bit become curious about exploring with art. Will be doing lots more of these fun messy activities this summer.
"But first, remember, remember, remember..." -C.S. Lewis
Today is world prematurity day. Our two youngest. Both preemies. One born almost 8 weeks early and the other 5 weeks early. One stayed in the NICU, while the other went home with us within three days of being born. Both miracles.
The challenges drew me closer to God and I felt Him during those valleys in the most beautiful way. It's amazing how our pain and darkness can make our eyes so much more open to His light. How we become aware of much more.
It's almost like we live in a fog when everything seems to be easy and just right. We let the wrong things consume our minds and our time. Our hearts and lives. I am striving to remember the valleys. To hold on to that longing. To the pain and fears He overcame. That need, that only He fills.
Today, and everyday, as I look at you both and I am reminded that His plans are perfect. His story unfolds through each one of us and I feel so thankful you are a part of my story. That He has used motherhood to bring me closer to Him. To make me more alive and more in awe.
A good friend will see things in us that we can't see about ourselves - Bob Goff
We all need a friend like this. Someone to affirm us, when we can't see our true gifts and talents. To tell us that we CAN do it, when fear has overcome us. We need a friend to remind us gently of grace. Grace for ourselves. Grace for others. When it feels like we just aren't getting anything right.
We need people who are our true fans. Who cheer us on without any jealousy or envy.
Likewise, we need someone to look us straight in the eye and tell us when we need correction. When we are losing our way. We need people that can be honest and tell it like it is.
We need someone to pray for us. To hear us without judgement. To love us without conditions.
And we need to be this friend to others. In a world that is so "connected" through social media and technology, it is hard to find friends that are truly connected through the heart. But, the effort and time it takes to truly connect with people wins every single time.
This fall she wrote an essay on what made her unique. In her writing she talked about how much she loves being home schooled and how it has allowed her to have a closer relationship with her siblings; especially her baby sister. Last week I walked into the kitchen when she was baking a birthday cake for me. Seeing the two of them like this. Day after day. My heart couldn't be more grateful for the path God carved for our family.
Something special is starting between them. I continue to learn so much mothering our four children. Being from a big family myself, I had no idea all my mom did to make us all feel loved. And sometimes no matter her efforts, I selfishly wanted more. Oh, the grace I know now. Had I only known it then. So many nights, I sit in silence feeling like I wasn't enough to them. Feeling like I've somehow not given one of them enough of me. God reminds me that He will fill any gap I can't . I wasn't made to do this on my own. I was made to love and that is all they need. He will give them the rest.
Sharing a room when you are five years apart in age can some days present challenges. BUT then there are days like this that I walk into their afternoon "dance party" and I'm so grateful for the memories and moments they experience sharing this space. So thankful for the bond I see between them.
Two sisters who are cut from the same cloth, woven together with such similar threads; yet each one beautifully unique. One is loud and one is quieter. One is a rule follower and one a rule breaker. One is reserved, while one is more outspoken. One is independent and one still seeks guidance.
Both loved abundantly and equally.
I've learned numerous lessons being their mother. One of the greatest lessons I have learned is not to compare. Honestly, this can be very hard at times. Like wanting your more reserved child, to step out and be a leader. Or asking your more boisterous child to be still and quiet. So often we have expectations of our children. Sometimes these expectations are based on what we see other children doing; how they are performing or behaving. It is so important, as parents, to remember that each child is completely unique. One may be capable and strong in areas that another may never be.
God gives us each our own individual strengths. We should each strive to learn how to utilize these gifts for His glory. I love the differences I see in each of our children. They remind me that He carefully created each of us in such a special way. It is fascinating to look at each person and see the beauty in their individuality. I want our children to know that I love each of them and that I want them to be nothing other than who they were created to be.
I could hear the two of you laughing from downstairs, so I came up to see what was going on. I loved finding you snuggled together just enjoying a lazy morning. These are precious days.
I thought for a few minutes and then I had my own question. Why do I strive to be authentic with others? Why do I crave authenticity? I really want to know the heart and soul of the people I am around. I prefer meaningful conversations over small talk always. It is so important to me to teach this quality to all of you, especially Big sissy and Baby sissy.
As our group discussed this in depth, I began to realize how many women struggle with being authentic. We often wear masks, as we try to cover hurts or struggles in our lives. Many fear judgment and keep guarded in our relationships. Decisions are sometimes made based on what others think, instead of true desires. I have noticed this struggle even in Big Sissy. I continue to tell her to be the unique person God created her to be.
Each of us struggle with something in life; motherhood, marriage, our family, our past, our health, our weight, our fears. The list goes on. We all have weaknesses that accompany our strengths. But, the more we live authentically, the more it will inspire others to do the same. This kind of living takes courage, but I believe that the more people see us with our flaws, our imperfect, our real; the more beautiful we become.
"We're not here to be perfect. We are here to be real – to let Christ be real in us." –Ann Voskamp
It really is something beautiful to see the love between your children. I hope you girls will always be the best of friends. Having a sister to share life with is really a special gift from God.
It doesn't matter how much we try to sit and linger, to enjoy each day together.....summer still flies by. Trying to soak in every last bit of it.
Fall soccer season is upon us and you girls are excited and ready to play. The backyard has become the nightly practice field.
As we were driving to the mountains today we stopped at the American Girl store. This was the first time we have visited this special place. You were both so excited. We shopped a little and were able to get your dolls' hair styled. It was a fun and memorable time.
I love that even with five and a half years between you, you share a beautiful bond already.
