Memory Making

After dinner is done, adults linger over conversation.  Kids race outside with Opa, squealing in delight, freshly equipped with flashlights.

It is time to search for danger.  Didn't you know that little boys "eat danger for breakfast"?  In the recent weeks of 'post-monsoon season,' before the weather gets too chilly, toads could also be found hopping about.

The search is on.

These are the moments when memories are forged.  Simple moments, etched forever in child minds.

The quest.  The discovery.

As a parent it is a joy to witness this making of memories...

...and to remember back to favorite, 'everyday' memories from my own childhood.

Joy bubbles up, as I choose to look at the gifts, the blessings.  Sadness fades.  Gratefulness grows.  Hope is kindled.  No matter what assails us in life, we can look to God for provision.  The blessings are there, we just have to look and take note. 

Counting the multitudes of blessings in my life.  Care to join in?

Gifts 453-472

giggles in the dark as children explore with flashlights.

squeals as toads are located and followed.

eating dinner by candlelight!

discovering a continent in daddy's breakfast!

dimpled smiles.

little hands reaching up to hold mine.

this 10 Point Manifesto of Joyful Parenting.

watching loving mothers in action.

receiving cards in the mail.

scripture shared to encourage and comfort.

combining mystery letter backrubs and handwriting into a game!
fun evenings with my hubby - losing to him at T2R-Europe, but then watching Newsies the next night.  :true love:

getting to cuddle up with my heater, er husband each night.

little boys that join us in bed under the covers in the early morning.
sweet time in the Word.
friends who love Jesus and can't help but talk about Him.

surprising my sister for an early birthday celebration!

getting to hang out with my sisters and my mom for an afternoon!

husbands who watch kids for the day to make this possible.

Parking lot signs that make us smile.