Mom Reflections

The month is drawing to a close and I have committed to writing once a month, but oh how I feel inadequate to share words of wisdom on parenting and faith. The cold winter blahs have taken their toll. The constant desires to play IPad, IPhone, Minecraft, and computer games are slowly shattering the memories of many years of screen free play, creative endeavors, and hours of reading or coloring that once graced our daily lives. As a mom of older children, I am finding my children need me less from day to day, but truly they need me more. They need my grace, patience, comfort, wisdom. They only pretend to need me less. It is the Lenten season, a time to draw near to Christ, remember the One who saves. I am reminded clearly that I am inadequate. I raise my voice, I grow weary and impatient. I allow the screen play for moments of solitude. I don't want to cook, clean, go grocery shopping, or fold laundry. I want to go somewhere warm, I need me time, I need a break.  Lord, I can&#

In honor of National Hug Day, which was January 21 and Valentine's Day coming up, this post is about the power of a hug in the lives of our children. I have never been one for public displays of affection. I can be slow to hug others, unless there has been a level of trust established.  I have even been known to whine and squirm away as a child when my mom tried to give me hugs. "Sorry, Mom!" However, being a parent changes everything. Being a parent melts away insecurities, selfishness, and personal preferences. Being a parent forces one to give up all sense of self, at least for a time.   Mark 10:45 For even the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.  When our children are infants, you can't get enough of snuggling close, smelling their sweet fragrance, kissing those soft cheeks. When they are toddlers, they become more independent but return to your arms for comfort when they fall, when they are scared or