The past two days have been glorious beach days, full of sunshine, cool breezes, sand, smiles and quality family time. The perfect end to a wonderful vacation. We head home bright and early tomorrow.
Although we have been staying in Sandestin, yesterday we ventured over to Seaside for the day. It was peaceful, quiet and serene. We built a massive sand castle (really, Daddy built it) then tore it down (the kids and I handled this part). K briefly played along the edge of the surf, but the majority of the children's time was spent collecting 'treasures.' As the children rejoiced in the prizes they were gathering (sometimes even squealing in delight), I couldn't help but chuckle at the silly things they valued so greatly. There were seashells, rocks, feathers, pieces of sand dollars, sticks, even faux flower petals leftover from a beach wedding. There was absolutely nothing of real value, yet they were filled with glee as they placed them in their buckets. Occasionally they would bring something special to me and place it in my hand saying, "Here, this is a treasure I got just for you." Other times they would talk about which friend they were going to take it back home for.There was real joy in the prospect of giving. There was very little argument using the word 'mine' and much more rejoicing over who they would be giving things to upon their return.
As for the value they placed on seemingly invaluable things, I was reminded that things truly are just things. Their value should have little to do with price tags and much more to do with the joy they bring in sharing them with others.
Today, we stayed closer to homebase and were therefore right in the middle of the college Spring Break scene. As I watched many of these girls, I realized that while I would still love to have those pre-baby figures, that is about the only thing I would trade. At the end of the day, despite the challenges associated with being a wife and Mom, those things that make us feel as if we are 'losing ourselves,' I couldn't help but reflect on the fact that I know way more about who I am today than I could have ever hoped to at 19 or 20.
And then I realized how much of a Mom I really am when I had to restrain myself from approaching a couple of the young ladies and giving them a little lecture about self-respect, modesty and self-control. :-) Whew! I am glad I have a few years before my own reach teenage years. I am already praying for wise and discerning speech for myself, in addition to my prayers for them.
4 comments:
Sounds like a great vacation! I love when the kids find such pleasure in collecting little treasures. I also enjoy finding a way to display some of our treasures somewhere in the house, on a tray or glass vase or something, as a reminder of the great time we shared finding them.
We are going to Colorado this summer and I'm already looking forward to our treasure hunting.
It is great that you all get to take a vacation like that... together... with Daddy's full attention! Oh-- and I am happy to see that I am not the only mother out there who wants to slap a few kids up beside the head (verbally of course) about self-respect. I'm not saying everyone needs to be a prude, but goodness gracious already. I do not need to see a 12 year old's butt hanging out of her skirt. Sorry for the little fit.
I love your blog. :)
I am trying not to be bitter about the fact that you got to spend the day in SeaSide and just rejoice that you did!! I LOVE SEASIDE. So glad that your family had such a good vacation. I can't wait to see the pictures. Thank you so much for your blog and the wisdom you share with us.
Lori
While you always have my rapt attention with your fascinating and inspiring take on life, I'm ready to see some more photos of those three precious little munchkins! :O)
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