The other day my 5 year old (6 on Friday) asked why the movie we were watching was so “romantic.” I think it was Calamity Jane (known for it’s high romance) and the main characters were sharing a kiss. Thankfully Tim jumped in with an answer about how God loves us so much and the greatest thing He gives us is His love. He told David that God created us to love Him and care about love. One way we learn about God and His love for us is by loving other people. Love is so important to the Lord that He lets us participate in it as well.
David is VERY eager to open presents!
David seemed to accept this and we finished the movie. As I thought about this Valentine’s Day blog I reflected on romance, love and the greatest gift of ever – Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for us on the cross. Not exactly the stuff of flowers and candy but how much more life-changing.
Sarah sits amidst presents and school books.
Tim and I have stolen a Valentine’s Day tradition from my parents. When I was growing up my dad would always give a card and gifts to the girls in the family and my mom would buy treats for the boys. I loved being included in the holiday. My dad made me feel special, like his sweetheart. I was tickled to share the day with my mom.
A table full of gifts!
Today we had a Valentine’s Day lunch. After the meal Tim and I gave presents to the children. It was fun. Of course, I wish I was more organized. I didn’t have cards for any of the children. I bought the boys gifts at Walgreens (while they were waiting in the car no less – I managed to hide them). I didn’t have anything fancy for lunch or breakfast. Wednesdays are busy (that’s my excuse) but then life is busy. We did have pink pancakes for supper but they weren’t heart shaped (like Emily’s in FL – awesome Valentine’s Day breakfast, Em, and lovely decorations).
Sarah learns early on that the small boxes are often the most valuable.
I don’t know. Life seems to be full of small moments that add up to a large tapestry of memories. The big holidays are just one of the many threads. In some ways our Valentine’s Day celebrations probably won’t be so powerful in our children’s minds because Tim and I are both ‘present buying people’ (if there is such a thing). We celebrate Bonus Day and Special Birthdays and Traveling Day (treats for the backpacks when we fly), Back to School Day and so on. When I buy curriculum I usually add in a present or two for the children. Nothing extravagant – just little things here and there – but it does possibly detract from grander celebrations.
Joshua is laughing because we forgot to take his picture and this one is “staged.” Get working on that math, young man!
It has been endearing to see the children develop the spiritual gift of generosity themselves. They love to give presents and think quickly of how they can bless others. At Christmas they bought for each other and friends far and wide. David’s birthday is on Friday and the other children are worried since they haven’t had the chance to go shopping for him yet.
A flashlight and chocolates, does it get any better than that?
This evening, instead of a romantic dinner for two (or even a fun family dinner for seven), Tim and Rachel went to church to serve a meal to the Prime Timers (seniors). I stopped by and was able to see the 5th and 6th graders in action. It was lovely watching the older and younger generations mingle. I’m not sure who was serving whom and just who was really doing the ‘ministering’ this evening but it was a beautiful picture of another type of Valentine’s Day love.
Pink Indian Girl
Tim’s parents came by earlier this week with a bag full of Valentine’s Day presents. The kids were thrilled with their bag of goodies. Thanks, Grandma and Grandpa, you spoil us!
It was a lovely Valentine’s Day. Maybe next year I’ll have those cards ready and a special dinner all prepared.
Or maybe not.
Either way I am thankful that the Lord has brought Tim and these beautiful children into my life to teach me about love. And I am eternally grateful for His love.
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
Kathy
Love Love Love. YEA
I think that the gift of Celebration is one of the many good things Kathy brings to our family. As much as I would like to take credit for it, she even originated the term, “Holiday Hours” (a general suspension of bedtimes, declaring open season on snack foods, and often heralding a family movie or game marathon).
I don’t think there’s anything wrong with enjoying and celebrating, every chance you get. In the words of Snoopy, from the musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, “I don’t see why mealtimes can’t be a joyous occasion!”
With David’s birthday coming up, and a paid holiday on Monday, this weekend may be a “Holiday Hours” kind of weekend. Personally, I’m looking forward to it.
That’s a cool tradition to steal! Greg started 3 years ago giving a gift and card to our daughter (only one at the time). He’s continued that with both the girls now. I don’t know where he got the idea, but my daughter loves it!
What a wonderful tradition! I think it is so sweet that you take as many opportunities as possible to celebrate with your family. Sometimes we get so caught up in the busyness of our lives that we forget to celebrate. I’ll have to give this some thought and see how we can add more “special occasions” to our everyday lives. Thank you for sharing.
I think it is neat how you all celebrate. You guys are such a fun family. I still would love to meet you all in real life someday! Also, thanks for the sweet words about my Valentine Breakfast and decorations. I love celebrating everything too!
More great pictures. Your traditions sound so nice. I zoned on Valentines day this year and it just passed by we even forgot to send cards to my Mom from the kids! I guess the kids present was the snowstorm, LOL. next year…
I was hoping to get some items on clearance this year and didn’t even have time to do that. I’m with you on shopping the day of while the kids were in the car…. some years are just that way.
Our church’s older folks group is called the Prime Ministers (LOL)… pretty similar to your Prime Timers.
We dug out some candles for a candle light dinner, but nothing fancy to eat (LOL).