Many of my friends who had older children would give me encouragement and would tell me that I wouldn't be stuck always giving orders and correcting my children. Someday, they said, I would be friends with my kids and really enjoy chatting. I must admit I didn't necessarily believe them. I was too busy spanking, wiping bottoms, getting snacks, tying shoes...
Now I believe them. My oldest is almost 15 and my second oldest is 13 1/2. It dawned on me the other day that I share my life with them. They understand jokes now, they understand situations, they understand there is more to life than just themselves. It's wonderful. We sit and chat about things for hours. If I discover something funny on the internet, I call them in and we watch and laugh. We have fun going shopping, even to the grocery store.
I was talking about this very thing to a mom I met at swim class. She mentioned that was great that my daughters liked being around me because at that age, most don't. I do see daughters at the store trailing their mom and all the while texting their friends (or boyfriend?). I find that incredibly sad. What a wasted opportunity to talk and teach and learn.
Sure I'm still their mom first and they must listen and obey my words but the biggest change is I can talk to them. Really talk. It's nice and I'm looking forward to growing our relationship in the years to come. Even though I panic slightly in realizing just how little time is left with them before they move on and get married or go to college. But that is part of life and what I'm ultimately preparing them for.
4 comments:
Oh, this made me tear up a little. Mine are still little and my mother constantly reminds me of how fast it goes. Hope you had a fabulous Mother's Day with your kiddos.
Not sure how I came across your blog, but I'm so glad that I did! I am also a Christian mommy. My husband is a youth pastor and we have four small children, ages 7, 4, 2, and 9 months. You can find me at thejasandersfamily.blogspot.com.
Anyway, I can so relate to what you are writing about in this post. Some days as I am so busy caring for my four, I long for the days when they will be older, more self-sufficient, and able to relate to me {and I to them} on as a friend. Though I certainly don't wish away these days either...I cherish them! I just wanted to leave a comment and introduce myself, and let you know I enjoyed your post!
Blessings,
Angie :)
:-)
It's been a blessing to see your girls growing up and maturing into sweet Christian young women.
Thank you Amy! You are one of the people who's example encourages me to make it through these years (and even treasure them while they're here). I'm still in the middle of the whole wiping bottoms and all the rest phase, but I see you made it through and that gives me hope for me and my kids!
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