Six peas in a pod

Someone stated recently how blessed I was to have "easy children."

I laughed.
Is there any such thing as an "easy child?"
Yes, some are easier than others.
I have 4 and I have learned that much.
But I have also learned that I do not think there is such a thing as an "easy child."
Every child has different strengths and weaknesses, different points that need sharpening.
Different battles to fight.

I think the person who said that only saw how my children act in the moments they choose to see.
They do not fathom the battles we face in our home.
They are not there for the spankings, the discussions, the boundaries we draw and re-draw.
The times we face yet another gentle, quiet reminder.
The constant, sometimes very overwhelming battles we face moment by moment, day by day.

I have read numerous books on parenting and there is one thing that I have concluded from them all.
Parenting is not about ME.
It is about our Heavenly Father.
It is about relying on The Spirit, day by day, moment by moment.
Trusting that He will lead you in your actions, the words you choose and the love you give.

There is never a day that passes without the need to discipline each of my children.
I am not talking about spankings...I am talking about correcting in love.

I am always in the process of drawing boundaries, giving direction, correcting of some sort.
I have a husband who has taught me more about being a parent than any other human being in the world and I have a Heavenly Father who arms me with more than enough grace and love for each of my kiddos.

It's a daily battle.
It's not an easy battle.
But it is He who "arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."

I am blessed beyond words with each of these kiddos and it is my prayer that together, Greg and I lay a solid foundation of truth and grace for each of our kids. That day after day we hold them with open hands before a Heavenly Father who loves them far beyond we can comprehend.

May we continue in this season of laying a solid foundation for each of them with thanksgiving
and may we never face an "easy day" or an "easy child."
Because if we do I fear that we may be doing something wrong.