Wisdom and Folly from this side of nslSue's Life: They Are Only Little for Awhile...

As I was driving home from my 10 days in SLO with Tilly Jane, Hattie Rose and Sarah and Ryan, tears streamed down my cheeks as I listened to the song, "Let them be Little"--and I knew the truth of how fast these years go by and become like a whisper in the wind- not even sure it ever even happened. Yet, I had been reminded how difficult these days can be with two little ones, no time to yourself, always serving the needs of these little beings that are totally dependant on you for everything... I want to cry out- cherish each moment, each hug, even each temper tantrum and wakeful night-- but can you when you are exhausted and in the midst of it all??? ..."for they are only that way for awhile".

I will miss the early morning quiet times, the singing of "Tell me Why", the "I love You- miss yous", the little impy moments, the daily changes...and I am sad I am not closer to help Sarah and Ryan in the stress of it all- as raising a family is stressful ...

But it is also joyous like no other time in life. I came to realize that I don't think we were meant to live as independent families but we were created to live in extended family community as we all really do need each other- to be that village that helps and supports in raising these precious little ones. How is it that our life has become so mobile, so isolated from one another?

Even Uncle Deven fell in love with these two precious ones and longs to spend more time- to be silly together and have adventures. He found a bond- one that is meant to be among nieces and Uncles.

Mornings were some of my most special times- as Sarah could sleep or get other things done and Hattie had her breakfast next me as I held Tilly- quiet moments-precious memories.

But we all stretch and do what life demands- making the best of the situations we have- but I can long for a simpler time. When families were close together, they could run over to help when needed, laugh over a funny moments, have a cup of coffee together- watch those precious little people grow and learn and love.