A Part of Life

It always happens when I'm really busy and rushing to get things done...my kids give me a reminder to slow down and savor the moment. Yesterday it was driving Emory to school. I don't usually get emotional about school starting or moving up in a class, but yesterday was a reminder that they really do grow up fast and before we know it they will be out of our houses and in the real world! As I was posting the usual first day of school pictures on Facebook, a friend posted a picture of a jar of marbles. Odd, yes, but the meaning behind it was this-- When your child is born you are given 940 weeks with them before they turn 18 and leave your home. Nine hundred and forty weeks!! Seems like a lot, but start taking the marbles out and it isn't a very large number anymore. I'm excited about what the future holds. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared but growing up is a part of life. I love watching my kids discover new things, learn new tricks, and accomplish milestones. It makes me smile and makes my heart have a happy sigh. I pray that while my children are in our home that we can give them what they need to be in the real world. I pray that we can be an example of Christ's love for them and others. There are many things I want for my children. I want them to grow up to be leaders and not followers. I want them to find someone to love and grow old with. I want them to know how to get back up when they fall down. I could keep going but I hear those sweet babies over the monitor which means my day is beginning. I leave you with another reminder I had the other day to slow down...

Gavin and Riley refused to come inside when we got home. I found them playing in the rain. Soaking wet.

They were having so much fun, I grab my camera instead of making them come inside.

She was so dirty!

This might be my new favorite picture of them!!

My big girl getting in on the puddle jumping!

This was the weekend Chase's parents came to town. Fishing in the backyard. He was practicing for Saturday morning.

They both actually did a great job!

My girls!

Princess Riley!! 

Looking very dapper and maybe a little nerdy!

King, Queen, and Princess!

This sweet girl LOVES spaghetti!!!!

And hats!

 I take these pictures so I have them for the future and for wedding slide shows! But I also love to see how much my children have grown and matured over the years. Sure I will look at these,sigh, and say "When did they grow up?" But I hope to look back at all these memories with a smile and not tears of time gone by!