Making cookies, and Christmas stockings, cleaning the dirt and grime that has accumulated for a year now. I found things that I had forgotten about, and it feels so good to walk into a formerly cluttered closet to find it clean and organized!
I've been busy watching the kids grow and get used to their daddy again. Lex stopped screaming every time Kevin walks out the door, because he finally understands that he will be back. And now that I have more time to reflect, I am having a blast watching the kids interact with each other. Lex is engaging the kids in conversation, not just following them around the house. He loves them, and can often be found hugging Gwen or sitting on her lap. I might have missed that, had we not had Lex. And with another one on the way, I'm encouraged that he/she will also have a great relationship with their siblings. Of course they fight, but since Daddy has been back their fighting has reduced. Which makes me very happy.
Still, having four kids is not a burden. We don't look at our children and problems to solve, or a *mistake* that we weren't wanting to happen. Sure there have been some surprises along the way, but never a mistake. I was expecting the comments to come, when others finally found out we were having another baby. Still, I was incensed when the comments came. The comments that we shouldn't be having another one, that we can't afford another one. People saying, "Better you than me."
That's right! I am happy not to be you, but me, because I am thrilled with our family. I love our children, and would not wish God to take any of them back. Four kids is not a large family at all - now that I have three. Still, the comments bother me because I can't understand why others don't see the beauty and wonder and love in my children. They are from God, how can they not see it? It shines from their eyes - from their hearts, from their innocence.
I am thankful for my children, for my family, and for my life. I've learned that happiness does not come from expensive family vacations, beautiful houses, or late model cars. It comes from within - from God, and all that He has already given you.
I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
We're off to see Santa . . .
If you click on Gwen's and Hunter's pics, you will see the cross in their eyes, Lex wouldn't look the right way :D
8 comments:
Beautiful pictures...I'm so happy that you guys are having a wonderful transition!
I received your Christmas card this past week and love the picture. Thank you!
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Merry Christmas to you, too! And don't pay attention to the nay-sayers. I am happy for you!
Beautiful kids!
Pooh on them. Merry Christmas!
People actually say that? Everyone is so pessimistic and negative lately. It's hard not to take that stuff personally, but it really is about them, not you.
I think it's wonderful. My pediatrician once made a comment to me that kids from big families seem the most well adjusted. I'm sure you'll prove her right.
I can tell you now...I have 3 friends that have four kids and 1 that has five and they are the most loving and beautiful families....just like yours! Xx
Merry Christmas Mindi....
If society viewed children as God does- a blessing, not a liability, then the world would be a much better place.
You are a wonderful mom. I'm so glad that you are going to have another little one to love and raise.
You will never hear a negative comment from me!! lol!! That would be a little hypocritical, huh? HA! I am SO happy for you and I know this knew little one will bring more joy (and more pics!!) than your beautiful family will know what to do with!!
Post a Comment