Family Portrait

I love my kids. And I really love being a mom. If you read this blog any a regular basis you might notice something, though. I don't talk about my kids a lot in my posts. I don't mean to mislead you - it isn't that my kids aren't a priority. . . it is simply that my identity as a child of God is not completely wrapped up in being a mom. I'm really passionate about raising my children and lovin' on them with unconditional and Christ-like love, and I'm also really passionate about doing ministry alongside my hubby with people who are longing for conversations that go deeper than the silly thing my 2 year old said yesterday (although its a pretty good place to start).

So I wear two hats, and I love it. But today I think I'm going to blend my worlds and talk about my kids. They are a huge part of who I am - and when I am paying attention, they often teach me more than I teach them. They are awesome.

Caleb is a lot like his daddy. He has always been a little bit introverted; totally satisfied with a measuring cup, a train, or (these days) an action figure and his little self. When my Nana passed away we had a family dinner with extended relatives. Caleb was 1 and 1/2 years old and sat in a high chair at the restaurant for 3 hours without complaint. Amazing, if you ask me. He does have pieces of me, though. He has a tender heart and a very soft conscience. Yesterday he told the babysitter (rather insistently, apparently) that he needed to go to bed early because he had been naughty before she came. I am so proud of this little guy. . . but also aware that he is a sinner like everyone else and in need of the grace of God. Oh, how I pray that he will be a man after God's own heart!!

And then there is Alison. My mini me. She is outgoing and chatty. When you stand her next to other kids her age she sounds like a 10 year old. She is also super dramatic and a little (understatement) emotional. There are days when I would appreciate a toned down version of this little chick, but usually I find a lot of joy and laughter in her dramatic antics. She has one great passion in life: babies. Everywhere we go she finds babies, kisses babies, holds babies, turns random small objects into babies. . . Its a bit of an obsession. But I'm so grateful for the way it shows the love she feels. The first thing she often says when she sees babies and their moms is, "Oh, baby loves her Mama, and Mama loves baby." That's my girl - feelin' the love. I'm praying and longing for her to feel the same love and passion for and from Christ one day!

These little kids light up my life and remind me of the great blessings of my God. It is a humbling thing to realize how much responsibility I have in raising them. . . but I couldn't have asked for a better partner - Matt is an amazing Daddy - and I know that God will guide us and lead us as we help mold these little ones into the people He created them to be. Oh, I cannot wait to see what comes in their lives!!

So, this is my family. My other job. And, honestly, the one that matters most. . .