This week, I gave my wonderful co-executive ceo of Whole Heart a cashmere scarf to go with his cool cap.
Lots of sibling fun and hugs going on--it is great to be at this point. Just when you thought your children would never stop fussing, they are all best friends.
Even a memory of sitting on the small bathroom floor, with Joel, Sarah and Joy talking until midnight. Started with brushing teeth.
Participated in a special Christmas choir, where Joel (director in front), wrote an original 4 part piece of music for Downtown New Life and for the pastor, Glen Pakiam called Magnum Mysterium. (About the mystery of the virgin birth and coming of Jesus.) I must admit, it was so sweet to be led by the conductor who used to be my little boy! :)
I made homemade herb bread and potato soup with fruits, nuts and cheeses for our Christmas Eve totally candlelit dinner and giggled over many times gone by.
Hosted friends in our home to celebrate the season together, ending in a carol sing and concert by Clay on guitar, Joel on piano, and two other family friends on violin and cello. (Terri Moon and son Jeremiah) It was sweet to have lots of kids and sweet voices old and young.
I have cooked and eaten and washed dishes--about a thousand times, and then someone comes into the kitchen and says, "I'm hungry. What is there to eat?"--again!
These guys look serious about their food!
But, the memories are so sweet. I have not gone to bed before 11:30 or 12:30 any night, gotten up early most mornings to send Joel off with scrambled eggs and toast, to his Apple Store job in Denver--45 minutes away.
Saw Les Mis together and discussed it on the way home amidst a snow storm and a car sliding out on the freeway. No storms keep us from talking and talking and talking about our opinions.
Talked lots and lots with Nathan--so fun; watching a dramatic series together and favorite old Christmas shows.
Got everyone warm new jammies (Joy--owls of course, Sarah and me gowns and the boys all warm flannels--even we have spent hours and hours on the couches in front of fireplaces in our new jammies just being glad to relax.
Feasted and listened to constant music in the community called the Clarksons and taking time to look into the eyes of each child and thanking God for each day.
Having tea by candlelight in Sarah's room with doors closed.
Talking late into the night, hearing Joy's stories and secret dreams about college, friends, issues and life.
I pray God's blessings and protection on all of my sweet ones as they foray back into the world, but for this week, we have savored the moments.
Always, the mama--always the need to provide, pray and inspire and listen.
Thankful for my role amidst this precious life.