I check on my kids every night before I go to bed. It’s not out of worry, but rather I want to see the peace of them sleeping after our day together. Our days aren’t perfect, but there is something about watching them sleep that makes me forget the hard moments.
I usually kiss them on their foreheads too and whisper “I love you.” Sometimes the mumble back, but most of the time they just continue their sleepy breathing. Peace, I tell you.
My boy Ben goes to preschool on Monday and Wednesday mornings. He takes his lunch with him, B-E-N scribbled on his cup and Rubbermaid container in permanent marker that isn’t so permanent once it goes in the dishwasher.
Kristen at Chasing Blue Skies has a weekly link-up about surprises. This week’s prompt is:
What unexpected, surprise appreciation did you receive from someone or extend to someone? How did God use their thank you to make a difference in your day, your year, your life?
On Sunday night, when I kissed my sleeping son on his forehead, he opened his eyes and whispered, “Momma, you write my name on my cup for school?” Whispers from him usually only come when he’s sleeping. He must have been dreaming about school.
“Yes, buddy. It’s already on there.”
Still in a sleepy state, he managed, “Thank you.” His head turned back into his pillow and the deep, sleepy breaths continued. Peace, I tell you. With some gratitude tossed in.
We teach our kids to say “thank you” more as a reaction than an actual sentiment. As they grow up, the meaning comes with the words, hopefully. Each day I do all sorts of things for these two little ones who have rocked my world in ways I never imagined but don’t want to change back. Honestly, they seem to mostly go unnoticed. If someone were to notice a task going undone, it would be my first-born, just-like-me girl.
So to hear “thank you” from my boy, the one who makes near-constant noise, and messes out of anything, friends wherever he goes is especially sweet. Sweet words this momma was glad to hear. Peace, I tell you.
I’m linking up today with “Out of the Blue” at Chasing Blue Skies. And I later linked up with MOB Society’s “Let’s Hear it for the Boys!” Want more? Subscribe to get “Insights” in your inbox. Like 152 Insights on Facebook. Or follow me on Twitter.
Ya know I *still* check on my tween/teen babes before bed? And for the same reason as you.
This right here: "We teach our kids to say "thank you" more as a reaction than an actual sentiment. As they grow up, the meaning comes with the words…" ~I hadn't really thought about that before, but you're right on.
Thanks for linking up, Kristin, and sharing your wisdom with us! What a gem you are.
I'll be right there with you still checking when my are "grown up." I'm so glad to be part of your inspiring series. Thanks for doing it!
Kristin, this is beautiful! My 23 yo son was recently home visiting and I would still peek in while he slept and whisper, I love you and thank God for them. I hope I've taught them how powerful those two words are. Thank you for sharing your heart.
Thanks for the encouragement and for visiting here, Beth!
You have me in tears!! My children are grown, but oh how I miss those precious little moments of joy. You have warmed my heart.
Thanks for your sweet comment, Alene.