Remember When...

Today I was reading a devotional at the Proverbs 31 website.

http://devotions.proverbs31.org/2011/04/the-sweet-smell-of-pinesol.html

I think it's most parents wish that their children remember the happy moments of life.  I know that is my wish for my kiddos.  God placed these beautiful children in my home after waiting a painful seven years. I have had such joy in having them share life with me. They have changed me. They make me want to be a better person. They help me see what areas of myself that I need to work on. They are precious.

The twins have been with us 17 months already, nearly 1 and 1/2 years. They are not the same kids that first came over to my house. They know their colors and alphabet. They can read, write and count. They have made friends and have had sleepovers. They know what they like and dislike (and are not afraid to say so!)  They have grown INCHES!  They have glasses. They can play organized sports like soccer and baseball. They have earned gold belts in Tae Kwon Do. They enjoy dogs and cats and other pets.

Peaches just celebrated her first year with us on April 9th. She has yet to spend her 1st Easter with us. (Although, that is quickly approaching!)  She has made huge gains in the past year. She has gone up two grade levels in reading. She now can study math without getting frustrated.  Her report card has been a complete turn around. She has confidence in herself. She has grown roots by starting many positive friendships. She has found success in Tae Kwon Do by earning her high purple belt and trophies in tournament.

Indeed, these children have changed.  They are growing up quickly. As a proud "momma" I hope they always remember the good times. I know that I treasure them in my heart. My favorite memories are when we are just being goofy.  We are a family that will just break out into song like Momma Mia songs, "Hit the Road Jack" and many others.  It's common for us to blast a song on the car radio (like Boogie Shoes) and be all crazy in the car or come home and have a dancing party in the house. We love family movie nights where we snuggle up together on the couches. I love my date nights with my kiddos. We have gone on so many fun trips: Rhinelander, Wisconsin Dells, Milwaukee Art Museum, Betty Brinn, Milwaukee Public Museum, Old World Wisconsin, and many others.

My absolute favorite... snuggle time. I love snuggling up with the kiddos before bed. They become little chatter boxes and have such good conversations with me. I love hearing what they have to say. I love knowing what is important in their day. It doesn't seem to matter what kind of day we had, snuggle time makes even the worse day seem ok. It's the love that we share.

Love:  The common thread between all of our happy memories...

What are some of your favorite family memories that have you saying... "Remember when..."?

(Here is one of our family's favorite songs to sing...)