Four Years a Mom

We started a new tradition this year. An additional aspect to the Birthday Celebration; a time to remember and reminisce. For me, I recall about this time 4 years ago when I began experiencing the pangs of labor for the very first time. I began an experience that some have described to be the worse pain a woman could possibly have. My story was unique as is every other mom's, but as we celebrate my first born child's 4th birthday, I am reminded that it is a pivotal time for me too: I am four years a mom!

We had him on the 22nd. I broke out in lavish praise when I heard his first cry. I could hardly take it all in when I first held him in my arms. We brought him home on Christmas day in a red Christmas bootie that he was given as a gift from the hospital. It was such a time of excitement and joy as family and friends flooded our home with their presence and love. Imagine Tidings of Great Joy meshed with the awe of a brand new son!

I celebrate because my entry into motherhood was stark and real; the reality of holding all responsibility for a newborn was no joke. But I have come to realize that first-time motherhood throughout the entire journey is even less of a joke; for no matter how they came in, they encounter that relationship with you afresh every new day. I find that my first born is coaching me constantly, teaching me what is best and what isn't, what works and what doesn't. He's "The Experimental Child," allowing me to test my instincts and ideas so that those afterward enjoy a smoother ride.

So today, I celebrate me. I celebrate making it to having a bright and intriguing pre-schooler; a young man who will be encountering the real world real soon.

We love you, MM! I look forward to being a better mother as we prayerfully parent you, and we know that you will teach your brother and any others along the way how to be exceptional individuals.

With love and gratitude,

-tia.
12/22/13

INSPIRATIONS! Cousins O' Mine

(Inspired to Write!)

A bright young lady, a Nutrition Leader with The Girls Scouts, asked me to write a song about cousins for her. She has many, many cousins, and a couple of them were going to visit. How thoughtful it was for her to think of how she could make them smile!

So now we've got this cute little song with a familiar tune. It's catchy and flows smoothly and predictably.
We might let you hear how it goes :)

But in the meantime, these lyrics are dedicated to cousins. As I began to put the finishing touches to the song, I realized how it rings true for me too! I also have many cousins, several of which I love and adore, including my sons’ cousins. Many of you are closer than siblings. You have been loving and protective; so available when duty calls; so faithful and true! You have been the backbone of support for each other and I, for one, am so glad to be in one big, amazing family!

I know so many of you, like my Nutrition Leader friend, are very proud of your families. We wish you great times and memories with all of your cousins!

Special thanks to my Nutrition Leader for inspiring me to write a brand new song :D

Enjoy!

Cousin O’ Mine

Verse I

Though you live so far away;

In my heart you’re here to stay.

Think about you every day;

Stay apart from you—no way.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Our friendship stands the test of time,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Verse II

When you’re here we laugh and play;

Wish you were here with me all day.

There isn’t more that I can say:

I wish you were here everyday.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Forever will our love entwine,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Bridge

One heart, one home, we never stand alone.

A family rich with love, no greater power known.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Our family ties; our love divine,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Close

So even when you cry and whine,

I’m still glad that you’re cousins of mine.

We fight sometimes but that’s just fine,

I’m still glad that you’re cousins of mine.

-Lyrics by tia 080813