Life With a Toddler

It has been challenging trying to find time to keep everything updated recently. Of course, one of the reasons is that we are going through a challenging season- where Eli is pushing as strongly as he can to see how firm our boundaries are. How exhausting. I am thanking God that he feels comfortable with us to push so hard, and also that he is a strong willed child- for these things will carry him far in life. I'm also thanking God for renewed energy, day after day.

Though there have been lows, that seem so low, there are also so many highs that are higher than any I've known. He is developing this amazing personality, and I can't help but fall more in love with him every day. (Usually when he is asleep... hehehe.... just kidding- mostly) Another amazing facet is the love in my heart for Tim. Watching him as he interacts with Eli as they read, or Tim is teaching Eli something makes my heart expand with even more love for my wonderful hubby, too. God is so awesome to continue to expand our ability to love beyond what we'd ever dream possible.

Last weekend, we celebrated Mother's Day with Tim's family. It was a nice gathering, hosted by my SIL, Paula, who lives next door. As I was getting Eli ready to go over to Paula's house, I began telling him what we were going there for, what we were celebrating. I always try to prepare him for what is happening. Our conversation was so profound- I still am amazed- I'll let you listen in.....

"Eli," I said, looking at him closely, "Do you know what we are doing tonight?"

"Uh huh," He said with his cheeky grin.

"We are celebrating Mother's Day with Mamaw, Papaw, Uncle Jeff, Aunt Tammy, Lauren, Aunt Paula, Uncle Scott, Cheyenne and Wesley, Mama, Papa and Eli at Aunt Paula'a house. Aunt Paula made dinner and we are all going to get together to celebrate Mommies."

I paused a moment, as I pondered myself exactly what it meant to celebrate Mother's day. It's one of those rare moments when time seems suspended for just a few seconds.

With a cloud of tears in my eyes, threatening to spill over, I looked lovingly at Eli and said, "Do you know you made me a Mommy? Can you believe that? The first time I met you and held you in my arms, I became a Mommy. Wow. Isn't that amazing???"

He was kinda looking at me a little funny as I ruminated on this amazing fact.

I said, "I am so glad I met you and you made me a Mommy!!" and I gave him a kiss filled with the tenderest of love, or so I thought at the time.

He looked at me and oh so sweetly said, "No, Mommy, I not make you a Mommy. God did!!"

From the mouths of babes!! I looked at him, feeling completely overwhelmed, wrapping him in my arms and I whispered past the emotions clogging my throat, "Yes, Sweetie. You are exactly right. God did make me a Mommy when He placed you in my arms. And I am so very thankful!!"

Thank you God for being so real to Eli. I pray he continues to grow closer to you!!