Tales of a Thankful Mom

           My Dad has nicknamed my youngest child “Sunshine.” She reminds me to slow down and smell flowers, literally, and she likes to take pictures of them too. Her eldest sibling inspires me to try new things, and she challenges me to broaden my perspective. Their brother teaches me something new daily, and asks his teachers when they are going to learn about higher level science topics such as physics. My children truly are my sunshine on a cloudy day. They are my laughter and dancing. My art and the music in my home. Right now, they are on the other side of the country visiting their Dad during Summer break. I hope that they each realize how much joy they bring to my life. I will close with the classic song, “My Girl”, but I feel this way about all of my kids nor just my girls. Do you have someone in your life that reminds you of sunshine?

       I am writing these words on a Monday, instead of last Friday, because I didn’t have the words last Friday. I was cleaning my son’s room today when I heard the below song and felt inspired to write. The last few days I have been allowing my fears and doubts run amuck through my mind. My therapist told me during my last appointment that I am not always kind to myself. I needed to be reminded that “there is nothing louder than the song of my Father.” “My life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:3) Thank you Lord that my life is not my past, my fears or my doubts. We are each God’s workmanship. God’s call on each of our lives is irrevocable. I am going to try to remember that when anxiety is running rampant, that if I stop and listen to my Heavenly Father’s song over me, I will find rest in the shadow of His wings.

              I find it interesting that each of us have a different perspective about time. Today seemed to fly by for me. I felt like I had a lot to do today- hello laundry- and  thinking about tomorrow, I expect tomorrow to be busy also, My youngest daughter at one point today told me that she was bored on the first day of Summer vacation. Fortunately boredom can be the springboard for creativity, if the statement of boredom isn’t taken as invitation by your older brother to pester  I mean entertain you. My children are very excited. They will be traveling out of state to see their Dad in six days.  My kids are looking forward to spending time with  their Dad, Grandparents and their New Mexican pets. I want to slow down and enjoy every moment with my kids, knowing how much I will miss them the approximately fifty four days that they will be away. I joked with my already taller than me son about how much taller he will be by the time he comes home near the end of July. He thinks that