Surprised for the Better! | Five Minute Friday

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Our Five Minute Friday Word: "Surprise".

What's a "free write"? No editing, no over-thinking, no worrying about perfect grammar or punctuation. Just write!

00:00 START the timer!
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I had been warned.

Before we had our first baby, "Oh, my labors were terrible and lasted xxx hours, honey. Get the epidural right away! ...Good luck."

Before our second was born, "It's a hard adjustment. Having "just" one was so easy!"

And then warnings for the future, "Whew, just wait 'til you have three! Three is definitely the hardest."

Just wait 'til the toddler's potty training regresses, 'til they constantly fight over toys, 'til neither of them nap anymore, 'til they are teenagers.

But I wasn't warned about the...

The joy of watching our toddler meet his baby brother for the first time.

The precious yet slightly awkward moments of trying to hold both toddler and baby in our little rocking chair.

The dreaming of these two little brothers being best friends for life (and best enemies at times).

I have been surprised by being a mom of two — surprised for the better. And I pray that in the Lord's timing, He will add another precious little one to our family. Children are hard work but the blessings greatly overshadow the challenges!

So here's my challenge for you:

The next time you talk to a new parent or parent-to-be, share one of the blessings you have experienced as a parent. It's healthy to share the struggles of parenting as well, but timing is key.

How can you encourage someone today?
Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. PROVERBS 16:24 NLT
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05:00 STOP the timer!

***Bible verse added after the timer***



Comments

  1. Emily ConradMarch 18, 2016 at 7:47 AM

    I love your perspective, Amy! Though I don't have kids, this applies to so much. We have a choice about being positive and focusing on the blessings, and that's something I need to do more! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amy WMarch 18, 2016 at 12:17 PM

      Exactly, Emily! A change of perspective and focusing on all that God has blessed us with does make such a difference :) It's something I have to remind myself of daily!

      Delete
  2. AnonymousMarch 18, 2016 at 7:57 AM

    What a sweet post! I LOVE the joys of parenthood. You've offered a wonderful challenge. Behind you at the 42 spot at FMF today.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AnonymousMarch 18, 2016 at 12:10 PM

      I have to add a funny...our church website is livingthetruth.org I didn't notice your url until I saw it on your comment at my place.

      Delete
    2. Amy WMarch 18, 2016 at 12:17 PM

      Thank you, Christy! I'm stopping over your way soon :)

      Delete
    3. Amy WMarch 18, 2016 at 12:19 PM

      How funny that your church's URL is nearly the same as mine! I was going for "lifetothefull.com" but the domain was mucho $$$ :) Livinglifetruth suited just fine!

      Delete
  3. Mary Beth JacksonMarch 18, 2016 at 9:41 AM

    sweet! and you will smile when they are in their 20's and you realize they still like each other :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Amy WMarch 18, 2016 at 12:18 PM

      Oh, I hope so MB! I really do hope they have a strong relationship as brothers AND friends!

      Delete
  4. AbbyMarch 20, 2016 at 8:39 AM

    So sweet. They are adorable.

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownMarch 21, 2016 at 11:57 AM

    I absolutely love this!!!! Perspective really is everything. Such a great reminder to use our words to bless!

    ReplyDelete

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