Fall Madness Continues

I went with the man of my dreams to the pumpkin patch and then helped him carve the pumpkin at preschool! These early days fly by far too quickly and I wish I could just freeze time and savor this moment with my beautiful children. The laughter, noises, smiles and tenderness that makes being a Mother the most amazing job in the world - these treasures are what I live for.



And of course we are entrenched in a myriad of fall festivities, as well as normal obligations like dance, piano, church groups, roller hockey, and so on... And all the while I am watching each child - logging in my mind's eye the intricate details of childhood - of innocent faith and blind hope - of new beginnings and complete forgiveness - of truth and love - of wonder and amazement... of knowing magic is real and God is bigger than everyone. Childhood is so very sacred and breathtaking... and gone all too soon.

I love my children so much it hurts - my heart is full and brimming with the hopes, fears and hurt I shoulder for them. Rebekah is now in middle school with a new interest in boys, music and fashion - the world has begun to infringe on her youth... and I see the start of a woman in the making. Kristine still holds to the end of her childhood with the awkward transitions that we all remember too well. She is happy and honest and senses that more is coming, but doesn't yet know what that means. Isabella is still free spirited and child centered but has a calculated agenda when she is focused on her own priorities - she could rule the world one day! Ramsey is a beautiful, intelligent and active boy - who loves super heroes, transformers and wants to marry his Mother someday!!! His littleness is blissful and perfect and I am trying to savor every minute. They have grown, they have changed, they are on the road to becoming their own people... and as their mother I want this and dread it all at once. If only they knew how deeply rooted my soul is to them, how much their goodness and strength springs from me and is within me - how symbiotic our relationship is - that all I do and all I am is reflected in Mothering. This is the most important role I have taken on and the most challenging course I have ever studied... It is my greatest achievement in all of eternity. I am honored to be their Mother.

On a lighter note, the activities and the season keep(s) us running and busy. But no matter, these are my children and they do have enough energy for work and play... LOTS of play! Saturday we had three parties all of which we attended in full force and with our best party clothes ;)

As you can see Rebekah is a gang member this year, Kristine is Medusa, Isabella is an angel (no laughing!) and Ramsey is 'Johny' - the Torch from the Fantastic 4. Our friend in the photo is a Valley Girl. We have embraced the fun and delight of fall so far and look forward to the multitude of experiences the holiday season has in store for us!