The Curve

Mauri's excitement about Spring and Mother's Day led to this beautiful creation, courtesy of flowering bushes and trees found along the path of her nature walk yesterday.

What a blessing she is.  I have decided to try harder to consciously appreciate her gentle and loving ways.  I will stop and be grateful for her youth, including all her toys and knick-knacks she leaves lying around.  I will listen more attentively as she tells me about her favorite comics from the Sunday paper, or the latest book she is reading.  I will listen to her prayers, tuck her into bed, and cuddle upon request.

Because I know (boy, do I know), these days don't last forever.

Before I know it, she may have no desire to talk about the latest book she's read.

Her toys and knick-knacks might be replaced with piles of clothes, make-up, and backpacks loaded with homework.  And shoes... endless piles of shoes.

She may no longer have the slightest need for hugging and kissing her parents.

She might grumble at advice, rarely crack a smile, and laugh only around her friends.

(I know, THOSE days don't last forever either, it just feels like it sometimes.)

I love being a mom.  I have been blessed with amazing children.  They have been (and still are) excellent life teachers.  They may even grade on a curve -- I sure could use it.  I love you guys!

In other news:

I was released from my TWO callings on Sunday, and given a new one.  Primary chorister.  My good fortune is, that since this Sunday is Mother's Day, a kind brother in the ward will be filling in for me, so I am blessed with another week to get myself somewhat together.  Since I haven't had a calling such as this for somewhere around 14 years, I certainly feel apprehensive and timid.  I hope those Primary kids grade on a curve too.

We are finishing our basement!  Hip! Hip! Hooray!  It can get started as soon as we can "clear it out."  Completely.  That sounds like a BIG chore, much of which involves packing up that food storage.  I think we'll have some good participation from the kids, however, since they are eagerly anticipating all the funtastic times to be had in such an inviting place.