Life with teenagers

Since moving here to East Texas we have been experiencing many changes.

We now have 3 teenagers.  And two more quick on their heels.

I can hardly believe how fast my sweet babies have grown up.  I used to pray that the days would end.

Little kids can be hard: the cleaning up after, the washing clothes, the folding clothes, the trips to the pediatrician, to tantrums in the grocery store, the tantrums at the hair salon, the tantrums at church (most of those tantrums were mine not theirs) and then the sleepless nights that made me addicted to coffee.

I’m being real – countless sleepless nights did not bring out the best in me.  So many times I would cry “Maranatha Lord Jesus!  Come Quickly!”

Now that the time is getting near to them flying the coop – I’m hanging on tighter and enjoying the moments.  Plus, in most respects, this time in our lives is so much easier.

They now can cook and bake, they clean up after themselves, they make me grocery lists, they make me laugh with grown up jokes, they give us date night, they are friends and don’t fight over toys (much.)  I really am enjoying this stage.  Except…

I know it is fleeting.

This Mama Bird – knows they will fly away one day.

They will serve the Lord in their own capacities and hopefully in His Ultimate Will and Purpose.

Every once in a while, I catch myself just tearing up knowing we overcame those very difficult years where if it wasn’t for my closest friends and church family that supported me week in and “weak” out – I would have failed at motherhood.  I’m so very thankful the Lord sent us to a church where we were loved.

Now, He has sent us to another church where we again feel loved and my kids are learning right alongside us.  It is a sweet picture for me.

I even enjoy seeing the “rough” patches that teenagers must overcome.  It is like a “Pre-Out-In-The-Real-World” Test of sorts but in a safe place.

Right now our eldest is learning to drive.  Being a boy – I thought he would be a fast driver.  He is not.  I am constantly reminding him to “Go Faster!”  But, my inward feelings are kind of glad he is so cautious.  Yet, slow drivers can cause problems when the speed limit is 70-80 mph.

I see the teen years as the 70-80 mph.  When a mistake is made, it can be huge with terrifying consequences.  But, it can also mean there is more freedom and we can crank the music louder.

I love my teens.  So far, I am enjoying more great days than the bad days.

I am striving to live without regrets.  I might blog less (or maybe not).  I might cook less.  I am definitely on the road more. I also take tons of photos because I missed them when they were younger.  I don’t want to miss a moment!

Blessings to you!  You are loved!

bch