Tonight I went on a fun night with Lindsey. We went to the Mulligan Family Fun Center where, thanks to a coupon book Jay purchased months ago from a door-to-door salesperson, our entire evening there was free. What could be better?!
First we went to dinner, though, just the two of us. It had been far too long since I had sat across a table from Lindsey and devoted a whole hour to just talking with and listening to her. I was completely taken with the charming person she is growing to be! We worked through the kids book she got with her meal, played tic-tac-toe, and giggled about silly things. When did she get so good at reading that she could play a word matching game with very little help? When did she become actually able to beat me at tic-tac-toe, even when I was trying to win? How could I be surprised by how sharp her wit and sense of humor has become? She is growing up in front of me and many days I have been too busy to notice.
At the Fun Center Lindsey rode a go-cart, all by herself, for the first time. The last time I checked she was too shy to do something like that alone. Then, to my astonishment, she cleanly beat me at miniature golf. She scored not one, but two holes in one. How did she do that? What is going on here?
Lindsey is growing up. Because she is my second child, I am finding this to be a bit of a sneak attack. I notice when Joey grows because his firsts are mine as well. When Lindsey comes on strong with a new skill it is surprising because I can't believe it is her turn for it so soon. But it is her turn. And not just for "seconds". She is her own person, so many of her firsts are unique to her. Special because they are difficult (or easy) for her alone.
How lucky I am to be mother to this exquisite person, this kind and loving girl. Thank you, God, for Lindsey, and for the moments I slow down enough to truly appreciate what I have, not just in her, but in each of the five uniquely amazing individuals I get to call my children. I am truly blessed.
2 comments:
It is pretty amazing this thing called growing up. I am finding this with Hannah. I have been able to spend time with just her this summer and she amazes me everyday with how beautiful, smart, mature, and still absolutely hilarious she is. I am so thankful we were able to do this before she starts junior high as I think things will change significantly. Ask me how things are going in 6 months!! All of you kids are truly amazing in their own ways and I am so glad you see them in their special ways. It is a hard thing to do with 2 let alone 5 almost 6. You are a great mother and are still y inspiration.
Thanks, Jen. It is no accident your kids have turned out so well themselves! You, too, are a great mother. Belive me, I will look to your experience when my kids hit their teenage years!
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