these hands
I took these photos one afternoon a few weeks ago. It was a moment when I was truly cherishing my little ones.
With their sweet hands that clean.
And build.
And craft.
And draw.
But I’m afraid I don’t always cherish these moments. Too often, I see it like this:
Audrey wasting another diaper wipe.
#3 making a mess in the living room.
#2 using far too much tape.
#1 leaving his papers strewn about the table. Again.
Ugh. I hate admitting that. Do you know what I mean, though? So often I miss the joy of their playfulness and creativity because I’m more concerned about things like wasting tape and not wanting to clean up another mess. Things that are necessary, no doubt, but not things that show my children how much I value them.
My babies’ hands make messes. They hit. They drop their food on the floor and wipe their sticky fingers on the sofa.
But they are everything I’ve ever hoped for.
They are full of curiosity and unlimited talent. They share their toys. They offer to help. They draw amazing pictures and write silly stories. And they give the sweetest hugs.
I created this little note card to put up in my office … sometimes I just need a gentle reminder to refocus my perspective. Perhaps you do as well.
Please feel free to click on the image to download a pdf. There are four on a sheet, so you can pass a few along to friends.
Being a mommy can be a thankless job. We may not hear much gratitude for all we do, but I know that simply by loving our families to the best of our ability, we are making a difference. And perhaps with the right attitude, this great responsibility and honor can be full of joy and grace even when it’s messy.
***UPDATE***
Sorry that I overlooked that many people have one child! So here is a card for you.
And a family one as well.
Just click on the image to download the pdf.
