Life is never perfect, but sometimes it's pretty close. My children are true siblings as they swing the pendulum of loving one another to tattle-telling and toy "hoarding". Hannah and Tian are spending a lot of time playing together. Yippee! All will be going well, and suddenly, Hannah will shift and want to know, "When does Tian have to go down for a nap cuz I need a break from him." She has been the only princess for so long, it's hard to get upset with this attitude.
Tian adores his Daddy and his sisters. He has warmed up to MaMa pretty well too! His English improves daily as does his ability to communicate his distaste for a few rules. He still loves to eat, and tries to eat all day! He told me supper was "Yuk" tonight. Didn't take him long to learn that one from his sister. I tried to explain that "No, thank you" was a better choice. How do you teach manners in English to a Chinese speaking 3 year old? Obviously, I was too harsh. He bawled, open-mouthed showing his "yukky" supper to the entire family.
Olivia is crawling. God bless her. She has been such a trooper during this change. I worry she has received the shaft as all eyes have turned from my precious 8 month old to her new big brother. Fortunately, only love rests in her eyes for him. She gives him that big toothy grin. He reciprocates in such gentle ways with her. Tian will caress her cheek or kiss her forehead. It's too sweet!
My marriage has strengthened as I watch my husband take on an entirely new devotion to our children. The man has even gotten a little more organized and has cleaned more like me. What a way to get into my heart...forget food, forget flowers, forget gifts. Honey, just clean the house, and I'm all yours!
Lastly, I must add that I am truly thankful that I serve a Lord who continues to teach me, who encourages me, and who re-teaches me each time I don't quite get His lesson. I am thankful for His patience. Worry overcame me a couple of weeks ago as I focused solely on my children. Sharing my concerns in prayer, God calmed my spirit and reminded me that obedience is much more important than a mission of changing the world. Wow! Utterly profound! Obedience- something that seems so simple. It's why I teach my children- to keep them safe. It's why He teaches me- to keep me safe in the center of His will. Thank you heavenly Father!
