When we told my 5-year-old daughter that we are expecting another blessing, she looked at me with a puzzled look and said, "Mommy, I have two questions." Number one: "Are you telling me a joke?" Once I assured her that it was not a joke, she asked her second question: "Does Daddy know?" I couldn't resist...I told her that I didn't know and that she should ask him! I so enjoyed hearing her ask him! He played right along. Since we told her the news, she is most caring toward my growing belly. The baby gets its own special kiss and hug every night at bedtime!
My 3 1/2-year-old son is very needy. He can be so laidback at times, but he thrives on routine to a fault. He has taught himself that 1 o'clock means that the little kids go to bed, and he gets to watch a show on TV! Also, 8 o'clock means bedtime. A much anticipated time in our house (usually mommy, daddy, and all 4 kids - whether they admit it or not - are happy that the day has come to its conclusion!).
But, routine-oriented son is still so sweet that he enjoys a good game of peek-a-boo or the silliest things. I started a game where I say, "Joseph, who loves you the most?" He starts a list: Mommy, Daddy, Jesus, God, Mary, and Joseph...and....then he adds someone or something very silly (i.e, a banana). He knows he will get tickled, and I just love the laughs and special bonding moments. Ah, at least he knows how much God and his family love him.
It's funny how you realize how important family really is as you get older. I reflect on this in a new way as I watch my children grow...their preschool teachers are so fabulous and form a very special bond with the children...however, it quickly fades as May rolls around. This is, of course, as it should be...how else would the preschool teachers have room in their hearts and heads for their new classes? But, it is sad to see how relationships so real and important one day can fade the next. The love of God and family, however, do not fade. Thank you God for the gift of your love and for our families to love us beyond a school year's quick passing!
