Let's Go Fly a Kite

We had to make a quick trip to the doctor this week for John Paul, who is now on three different meds (I always question whether or not we should go - sometimes I worry too much, others it's necessary).  The two big brothers had to come along for the 4-hour-round-trip ride, so we decided to go find that kite Carter was so desperately wanting on Sunday.  He must know what's in season because it was at the very front of Toys R Us as soon as I walked in.  We got home just in time to test it.

The boys were in their happy place, and it was beautiful to see them just being with their Dad.  He's a good one.  I just finished reading Legacy: A Father's Guide for Raising Godly Children.  I know it's a book for men, but it helps me understand a few things, too.  While I don't think that every bit of parenting advice you'll ever need comes from a book, this one was full of great information.

As crazy as this may sound to some, at times I already struggle with knowing someday I'm going to have to "give my boys away."  I have the most incredible example of that in my mother-in-law, and she does it with such grace.  But, right now, all I can see is treasuring them as my "little boys."  However, in this particular book, it said sooner than later, the "momma's boys" needed to develop a closer bond with their father and in a way separate from their mother, in order to develop their masculinity.  All for a greater purpose.

Luckily, these boys already have an incredible relationship with their dad, and he couldn't be more involved. The time has already come when Carter will ask me a question about what something is (a kind of truck, for instance), and he'll follow-up immediately with Jeremy to make sure I was right.  So it begins.  

As many days as I complain about my lack of patience or think that I just need a break, I love these little boys with my entire heart.  I do think I could do a much better job engaging them and being a bit less selfish with my time.  They have me laughing one minute and crying out of frustration the next on many days.  But, as a whole, there's nothing I'd rather do or be than these boys' mom, and I will hold on to that forever, even if it means needing to let go a little bit.  

For now, I'm thankful for the neediness and for a Dad who knows how to wrestle.  Reading that book was almost like reading a book about my husband.  He lives for these little guys.

And, they live for him.  There's not much more beautiful in a momma's eyes than that.