While recently visiting with a very wise friend (with older kids and a ton of perspective) she reminded me that every “phase” of raising children comes with it’s challenges. But the fun things are just a phase too. TRUTH spoken.
It was a good reminder to live in the moment with my kids. To soak up all the wonderful - and try to find a little wonderful in the not-so-wonderful of every phase. When we're knee deep in a tantrum or power struggle, it's tough to see that this is just a fleeting moment in time. But the time does pass quickly.
When they’re pleading for your attention. It’s just a phase. When they leave snotty slobbery stains on your clothes while trying to snuggle. It’s just a phase. When they cry because you left the room. It's just a phase.
They won’t always squeal with delight at the most ordinary things like chickens, big trucks or kitties. Learning to walk or clap only brings great happiness for a brief time. And before I know it, they won't want to give hugs or kisses - much less be willing recipients.
Sydney loves to greet everyone as she - or they - enter a room. Pure joy radiates from her tiny body when she exclaims "hi Mama" or "hi Grampy" or "hi Kitty" - even if you've only been gone a few minutes. She makes the recipient feel they are the most important thing to her in that moment. Because they are. I could learn something from her. It's genuine. And hard to believe that before I know it she will be a sulky teen. This too is just a phase.
When they’re pleading for your attention. It’s just a phase. When they leave snotty slobbery stains on your clothes while trying to snuggle. It’s just a phase. When they cry because you left the room. It's just a phase.
They won’t always squeal with delight at the most ordinary things like chickens, big trucks or kitties. Learning to walk or clap only brings great happiness for a brief time. And before I know it, they won't want to give hugs or kisses - much less be willing recipients.
Sydney loves to greet everyone as she - or they - enter a room. Pure joy radiates from her tiny body when she exclaims "hi Mama" or "hi Grampy" or "hi Kitty" - even if you've only been gone a few minutes. She makes the recipient feel they are the most important thing to her in that moment. Because they are. I could learn something from her. It's genuine. And hard to believe that before I know it she will be a sulky teen. This too is just a phase.
My friend's wise words were a good reminder to try and live in the now. To appreciate those sleep deprived nights, the sticky kitchen floor and toilet paper unraveled for the hundredth time. The affection and smiles and infectious silly laughter is all just a phase too.
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