Savoring the Moment

Last night I was talking with my oldest son. He was the last of the critters awake doing homework. And he looked at me in all seriousness and said, "Mom, please don't die before my birthday, ok." Seeing as his birthday is in less than two weeks, I told him, "I think I'll make it" (wink, wink), But then I could quickly see he was serious. He had been contemplating this possibility and was worried. I went over to him, gave him a hug and told him that I want to be around for a long time to take care of him and remind him how much he is loved , but that God's plan is always wiser and if He chooses to take me sooner rather than later, I would still be able to pray for him like mad and ask our good Lord to bless him. I would just be his mother somewhere else. After all isn't that the best we can give our children, our prayers?

This "little" conversation got me thinking though, as this particular child usually does :o). It made me want to slow down, stop time and savor each moment with those I love. So for today, I will...

* Snuggle up with my not so little baby and dance to "You're gonna miss this" , breathing in her sweet smell for as long as she'll let me

* Snuggle with Sophia and Felicity , let them "do my hair" and watch a Christmas Carol for the umpteenth time.

* Pray a rosary for my husband who is the tangible proof of God's loving protection over this family

* Bake pumpkin muffins for the "big kids" , to let them know they are missed every minute they are not with me

*Remind myself that every toy I pick up, every toilet I plunge :o), and every single act of service is a blessing because I am blessed to be alive and to be healthy enough to serve this wonderful family

*Thank God for the friends and family who are "true gifts"