We arrived at the park and the kids began to pour out of every door, all at once, with energy. I am used to turning heads when our boisterous army arrives at the park full of pent-up energy from a morning of seat work doing school at home. This day was no different.
We claimed our spot along the raised edge of the sand pit, emptied out the toys, and got to work – playing and playing hard. This one is building a maze of tunnels that turns into a pirate ship for her little brother, that one is sitting quietly under the climbing frame in her own world creating a land of make-believe in her head. Baby is overjoyed at the feel of sand running through his fingers and toes. Mama sits and takes it all in, sighs and letting go of the thoughts of laundry, sticky floors and bills to pay – relaxes in the sunshine.
Then “Are these all your kids?’
“Yes.”
“Oh, they are beautiful.”
“Thank you”.
Somehow arriving at the park with an Excursion full of kids with a 12 year age span qualifies me to speak on issues of parenting and the questions come.
“How did you know how many kids you wanted to have?”
“How do you manage X, Y and Z?”
“How do you teach math?”
“How can I know, manage and teach?”
The conversation is quick as we dart from kid to kid. Time is short and we get right to business, right to the point.
All of those struggles that I faced and stumbled through as I learned to parent (over and over again) come to mind as these young moms probe my past for answers, for confidence, for encouragement.
I love this speaking into the lives of others – my community. Our families, our communities are critical for our society to be healthy and strong. And so, we share, we laugh, we cry and we grow – together.
Linking up today with Lisa Jo and others for 5-Minute Friday where we write for 5 minutes. No editing, no backtracking and no over thinking. Just writing from the heart for the hearts of others. I wasn’t going to post today but found this inspiration at the park with the kiddos early this afternoon. Love!
By His Grace & For His Glory,
Marianne
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Better than any textbook!!
Amen sister! Just wish you had been there.
How lovely Marianne. Love your open attitude and your willingness to share your heart with others. The Lord will use whatever you share, for His glory and will do immeasurably more than you can imagine.
Hi Judy! It is my heart to share. That’s why I started blogging. Thank you for your blessing!
This is a sweet post; thanks for the pictures as well. What a blessing to others that you can speak into their lives through your parenting adventures.