Today my daughter turns 14. She came into this world with these huge brown eyes just staring at everything around her with such curiosity! I’ll never forget those eyes. Now I seem to be the one doing the staring. Staring at this smart, creative, compassionate, strong, athletic, beautiful young lady and wondering where the time has gone. Staring into her future with a smile, knowing she has so much to look forward to and so much to experience. Staring at myself in the mirror and wondering where that young, hip mom went that seemed to be able to do it all. It’s all going by too fast. I’m trying to be intentional about savoring each of these moments with my kids, but I find myself panicking that I can’t slow it down.
Birthdays are a wonderful childhood memory for me. My mom would make a special dinner for us of whatever we chose. The whole family was required to be there and dinner would be followed with a homemade birthday cake and brightly wrapped gifts. This tradition continued through college. I’ve tried to create the same tradition for my own kids, but with busy schedules, games, and practices, I haven’t been quite as successful. Along with celebrating, birthdays have also become a time of reflection for me. Being thankful we made it another year and everyone is healthy. Regretting angry words that were said and praying for guidance to be more patient in this next year. Evaluating my own parenting…am I doing the job these kids deserve? Looking back over the years and bursting with love for each of them. Feeling grateful that God blessed me with these two amazing human beings and humbled at the thought I was entrusted with their future.
I have no idea what’s in store for our family or what’s in store for each of my kids. I know things can change on a dime. But for today, in this moment, I couldn’t be more proud of each of them. So, Happy Birthday Catie! I wish my dad was here to see you today and experience the joy that only comes from knowing you and loving you, but I know he is watching over you. If he was here, I believe he would toast you with an Irish Blessing. So, from G-dad through me, here is our wish for you.
May God give you...
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.
Birthdays are a wonderful childhood memory for me. My mom would make a special dinner for us of whatever we chose. The whole family was required to be there and dinner would be followed with a homemade birthday cake and brightly wrapped gifts. This tradition continued through college. I’ve tried to create the same tradition for my own kids, but with busy schedules, games, and practices, I haven’t been quite as successful. Along with celebrating, birthdays have also become a time of reflection for me. Being thankful we made it another year and everyone is healthy. Regretting angry words that were said and praying for guidance to be more patient in this next year. Evaluating my own parenting…am I doing the job these kids deserve? Looking back over the years and bursting with love for each of them. Feeling grateful that God blessed me with these two amazing human beings and humbled at the thought I was entrusted with their future.
I have no idea what’s in store for our family or what’s in store for each of my kids. I know things can change on a dime. But for today, in this moment, I couldn’t be more proud of each of them. So, Happy Birthday Catie! I wish my dad was here to see you today and experience the joy that only comes from knowing you and loving you, but I know he is watching over you. If he was here, I believe he would toast you with an Irish Blessing. So, from G-dad through me, here is our wish for you.
May God give you...
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.
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