For the love of my boys

They appear to be angelic, and for the moment - and purpose of this post, they are! Who?!? My two precious sons: Sean and Conor.

The other day (seems like everyday!), I was knee deep in swiffer dusters, rubber gloves, cleaners, and laundry. Suddenly, I realized someone was standing behind me. That someone was ever so quiet, and waited patiently for me to turn and give him my attention. My focus was NOT on the little boy waiting for me - it was everywhere else. Typical, and totally "normal" for me. When I finally found time to stop; without yelling at that certain little boy for still having his shoes on in the house * insert smile *; this is what I saw:

And, this is what I heard: "Mom, I picked these for you because I know you love purple flowers. I even pulled the roots! Do you think they'll live a long time?". Gulp. It doesn't get much more simply stated than that. The words "I love you" spoken through an outward action. The sweet simplicity of having taken the time to think of another; in what would appear to be a small way, but in all reality -- huge. Thank you, Sean. You are a blessing to me!

My day didn't end there! A few hours passed, and I was in the kitchen cleaning up after dinner. As I was working at the sink, Conor came bouncing into the room. He had a huge grin on his face, and he said, "Mommy, you have to come to my room - now! Really - please - fast!". I tried to get out of having to "go see". Being called to Conor's room usually means one of two things: there's a big bug that needs to be taken care of, or he's rearranged all of his belongings and wants my approval. I wasn't in any mood to contend with room issues, but decided it was probably in my best interest to go. So I did, and this is what I was shown:

With great pride and joy, Conor pointed up to his bedroom wall and said, "Mommy, don't you love it? I made it for you! I even put it up there all by myself!". Swallow hard. Words cannot express the feeling you get when you child unveils a "masterpiece". I knew it was a labor of love. I had seen him gently unroll the huge piece of paper that he'd kept safely tucked away in his school backpack. I watched as he laid it out on the dining room table; as he worked so diligently to complete his work of art. And now, thumbtacks in the wall and all, the finished product... for me.

What in this world did I, or could I have ever done, to deserve such precious gifts from above? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Kind of like the gift of God's grace: salvation. We don't have to "do" anything to gain our eternal lives. We just have to accept the Gift of Eternity that's been offered to us free of purchase: Jesus. Our debts have been paid in full. Christ Jesus paid our way to eternity, and offered us salvation as a gift. It's as simple as accepting a cup of flowers. It's as easy as finding joy in your child's artwork. It's free. He's our Gift, and He gave Himself because He loves us.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Happy Birthday, Conor!

I'm two days late on this post!!! My life seems to be moving faster than me -- not much time for my hobbies... sorry, Conor.

Conor, my little Bug, it seems like only yesterday that you were a tiny little baby. You came into this world with a lot of excitement, and have continued to fill our home with joy and energy! Your thoughtfulness is contagious; I treasure the little notes you leave for me! Our home is never quiet because of your love for music, and your dancing brings us laughter. I can't believe 7 years have passed! Each year has been a blessing, and we're so grateful that you're ours.

I love you, Conor!

Happy 7th Birthday, Bug.

Springing Easter

I think it's safe to say that spring is finally here! Winter felt like it would never end. Although, I must confess - I really am a winter loving girl. I've always loved all of the 'romantic' things that accompany the cold weather: warm fireside snuggles, snow, snowball fights, sledding, hot chocolate with lots of whip cream, cookies, and more cookies!

So, spring is in the process of springing. I think our North Carolina spring season is probably one of the prettiest I've ever experienced. Northeastern springs are beautiful too with all of the dogwoods and cherry blossoms; but, here we've got bradford pear trees, crape myrtles, and dogwoods.

I absolutely LOVE the colorful display of flowers. There are so many beautiful combinations: purple and yellow; orange, purple and yellow; pink and purple; and, different shades of each color mixed together. The prettiest (my opinion!) are the tulips of all colors that have risen amongst low lying flowers. Tulips and blue hydrangea are my favorites... just in case you were wondering! I truly wish they were perennials that never cycled out.

The best part of spring - for me, is the realization of new life. Baby bunnies, birds, and fawns surround us. They're a constant reminder of the miracles in God's creation. What an appropriate time to celebrate Easter. The new life represented in Christ's death and resurrection; our Eternal Hope.

1 Peter 1:3,4

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade - kept in heaven for you.