Giggles and grins to melt your heart, as she spins on the merry-go-round “one more time”. Then over to the bars to show her muscular arms and just once on the swing. Please Gaga?
Amazed at the energy level it takes to keep track of a little one. Grand parenting is a blast and I’m so thankful for it, but wow oh wow–I have renewed giant respect for all the parents out there doing the hard work on the daily. 24/7/365. I’m sure some days feel like they drag on for weeks.
I am praying for you in this season.
Whether you are juggling work schedules, flying solo, co-parenting, dealing with an ex, managing health concerns, fostering a child or children, stepping in to help a friend or family member with parenting, the daily routine must feel endless. I know you love the parenting role, but some days, “being” a parent is just flat out exhausting. Please know, in my book, you all are Super Heroes. Ripped capes, shredded super-suits, the whole messy thing. I applaud you and want to publicly sing your praises. You are the unsung heroes of our society. You are raising the next generation of artists, writers, teachers, biologist, musicians, doctors and engineers. You meet unspoken needs, clothe, bathe, feed, cry with and over your dear littles. (whatever their age, they fall into this category if you are a mom) You set the tone for moods in your home by your responses. You speak love by your actions. You teach by example.
I am praying for you in this season.
You wear so many hats: juggler, educator, EMT, taxi driver, tantrum calmer, booboo kisser, skill set developer, mentor, dream builder, financial advisor, chaperone, host with the most, make-it-happen project helper, number one fan and cheerleader. The list goes on. With all the hats comes the joy of seeing your child grow in their choices, achievements and, must I say, failures. The learning curve on life is sharp. Unexpected curves abound and you just keep plugging away, showing up, cheering them on, loving, directing and doing what needs to be done.
I am praying for you in this season.
May you know your value and worth as a parent.
May you feel sustained on your toughest days.
May you have the courage to reach out when you need help, even a nap.
May you speak life over your children and yourself.
May you guard your heart and mind from lies that bombard you.
May you find your source of strength when the days weaken you to the core.
May your heart find a home where you feel safe and comforted.
May you know the moments are long, but the years are short.
May you keep a long haul, end game perspective where your child is concerned.
May you yourself be the biggest cheerleader and encourager your child knows.
May you offer hospitality to your kids’ friends. An open home is a like a warm hug.
May you listen and observe often. Kids speak without words.
May you know how much you matter to your kids.
May you know you encourage other parents when you share from the heart.
May you know kids seek their parent’s approval always.
May you know you are not alone on this journey.
May you know you can reach out for help, resources, encouragement and prayer.
May the God who created you, your child, your family, be your source of strength, the anchor for your soul, and the confidence you need to press on.
I am praying for you in this season.
Thank you for doing the hero dance daily–regardless of the condition of your cape or super suit!