Friday, September 30, 2011

What I'd like to say

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Toting around the family (with a brand new one) encourages lots of comments from onlookers.
Mostly, a lot of commiseration.
We are smack dab in the middle of transitioning, trust me, I feel it.
And yet, there are certain remarks that stick with me.
They are never the commiserating sort.
(the lactation consultant, in the hospital, while the children were loudly visiting my room and eating the complimentary pudding.)
"You have a beautiful family, and are so very blessed."
(the cashier at CVS while Roman and Lily were 15 feet away clutching tightly, and begging for, stuffed hamsters in the shape of bowling balls)
"You have fun with those kids. Enjoy them, have fun!"
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I really want to be the kind of lady who remarks on the beauty.
Who sees the joyful possibility.
Because heaven knows the impact these words have had on me.

6 comments:

Tish said...

Lora said...

So very true!

I have been thinking a lot about this as I've been potty training my little one. I have had nothing but "oh, NO, SO SORRY, worst time ever!" and guess what?? I went in to training with a terrible attitude UNTIL some very encouraging and kind words from my sister, and now guess what? Elle is trained and it really wasn't terrible! I so loved her words. It made all the difference in the world!

Oh that we can all lift and encourage one another NO MATTER WHAT!! xo

Caryn said...

I needed that reminder. Your family IS beautiful - LOVE these pictures. Steffan and I were just cracking up about the one with Dave. :)

Christy said...

what sweet ladies. i love running into people like that that make you feel good and don't say something like, "i'm so glad that's not ME anymore!" ha ha. although i have to say (and maybe this is just because i have a long way to go), some compassionate commiserating is sometimes just what i need. because it is dang hard to be a parent! a blessing yes, but still a very tough job! and sometimes it's so nice to know it's not just me. that everyone struggles and doesn't know exactly what they're doing. maybe there's a way to acknowledge the trial and still be positive and see the beauty? i hope so.

Bailey Family said...

I love your bunch and I love you bunches.

Glad that people are nice and thoughtful and good. I need to be better, thanks for the post.

Cute family. I laughed out loud at the picture of David...really you have five kids.

Tiffany said...

I love reading your blog! Congratulations on the sweet new baby!!!!! She is adorable. You have such cute kids. Love the latest post, I love being reminded of that often. And the pictures of your house are amazing. I love everything you do, your girls' room is darling!