When we were sharing about what we hoped to gain from the class, I said, "I want my girls to know how unconditionally I love them. I want to show them in a way that they never doubt or question my love. I want to teach them to love others, have an open heart and not be afraid to love. I want to show them my love for my husband and teach them how a Godly marriage works. Most of all, I want to show them that love is FUN!"
We really didn't get into the 'rituals' part, but today one of the ladies shared that every night after bathtime, she puts her 2 year old son in a towel and swings him around. She said he is always excited about it, and if she ever forgets, he lets her know. That seems so simple, but that's a memory her son will cherish forever. We do something similar....we wrap the girls up in a towel like a burrito, leaving an end of the towel out by their arms. We lay them down and pull the loose end, and they quickly unroll and come flying out the side. They LOVE it.
It's the simple things that children remember. Children more than likely will not remember what you buy them, but they'll remember how you made them FEEL. My grandmother on my Mom's side was not wealthy by any means. She would always have a little something for my birthday or Christmas....but as hard as I try to remember....I just can't tell you a single present she got me. What I can tell you about her is that she always rubbed my back until I went to sleep, she made the best turkey and dressing, she played Barbies with me for HOURS, she would stop what she was doing and listen to what I was saying---always!, she hugged and kissed me 100 times a day, she told me she was proud of me, she let me help her make biscuits, she never seemed aggravated or impatient with me, and more than anything....she just loved me and I knew it.
Okay, I'm teary-eyed now, because I miss my grandmother so much. I think about her everyday, and her birthday is this Saturday. My oldest daughter is named after her, and so often I see my "Nanny" in her. They have the same green eyes and humble disposition. I got off track.....sorry....but it's my blog, and I'll cry if I want to;-)
So, I'll continue to keep you all updated. When I get more fun tips, I'll share. Hugs and kisses!
Oh Dana--you are so right--they don't remember the presents,but they do remember the time spent. I am so glad to know your Grandmother is still alive in you today.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a beautiful post. I love it. I'm so glad that I found your blog.
ReplyDeleteyou are soooo right!!
ReplyDeleteThank you girls, and Heather, I'm glad you like the blog. Come back soon!
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