Where has the time gone? Wow…7 years ago I entered into the world of parenthood with my life to forever be changed. I’m still amazed how much a child can change your life and literally recreate your priorities.

I’m learned many things from being a parent. My son’s 7^th birthday has reminded me of them:

-My actions are viewed all the time and considered “normal” reactions to these little creatures. You ever wonder where kids learn all those “bad” words or why they reply to certain things in anger? They have to learn it somewhere…My hope is that they are learning all their “good stuff” from their Dad!

-LeeAnn and I don’t really get to make our own decisions anymore. As much as parents like to think they are in control, they really aren’t. In fact, if you don’t believe me, look at the food you cook, the movies you pick, what you do with your free time, the houses you buy and even the cars you pick. Trust me….NOBODY wants to drive a minivan…I know that from experience.

-Really good children’s shows are created by creative parents. Barney is horrible…kids like it though. But the really good shows are the ones where the creators actually write stuff for the parents as well. Of course we are watching it with them…most of the time we are forced to.  I think that’s what was so great about the Muppet Show…a lot of adult things in there to keep our interest. I miss those two old guys (Statler & Waldorf)

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-Kids enjoy pushing the limits. If I were to draw a line in the sand and tell my kids where to stop, they will be edged up right on that line (probably trying to step over when I’m not looking). You can’t be a kid and not “push the envelope”. When we get older, culture and society dulls us to this. Sometimes that’s a good thing, but losing our passion for going beyond is not. We need to keep part of that passion for wanting more in life.

-God’s love for us is like our love for our children….only 100% more. As much as I want to give the best to my kids and will work my butt off to do so, God feel the same way about me, although He’s actually able to give it all…unlike me. I love knowing that!

-Kids can destroy a room faster than you can clean it….I believe that’s scientifically proven!

-Kids really don’t know the meaning to “No”, even though we ask them that question all the time.

-There’s also a law of physics that states that children will play with the box more than the actual toy that was in it. Unfortunately buying empty boxes as gifts doesn’t go over very well with kids.

-Treat them good now, because when you get old, they will have to take care of you…and possibly change YOUR diapers. What a scary thought.

-People say once you have more than 2 it gets easier which is not true. My experience is that it gets more expensive, louder, crazier, your house has to get bigger, your cars have to get bigger, they out number you (so in essence they can revolt) and it involves major planning to do anything outside the home. But I wouldn’t have it any other way….in return….you have more kids to love you, more fun than you could ever have with just your spouse, bigger and better holidays and vacations, a renewed sense of outlook on God, Christmas and Easter, family and really life in general. You will learn to love more, give more and appreciate the small things in life. Your priorities will change (for the better) and you and your spouse will grow more in love with each other (because you need them as an ally).

With all the “complains” I hear in the world about having kids, I always come back to the fact that having a family is a blessing. You only get one chance in their lives, so please make it count.

Happy birthday my son….I’m so glad you came and changed my life 7 years ago!

M