Large family dynamics

Time to declutter!

Yesterday I did some major purging of my earthly goods. I had been inspired by reading through posts on the Organizing Junkie blog, and so I went through my house feeling the boost of some "organizing vitamins".


This time I wasn't sorting through seasonal clothing or kitchen cupboards; I was sorting through books, toys and my homeschooling materials stored in the basement. Even the best bound books, after years of use, can become worn—there were just too many bound with packing tape (even duct tape). I had too many pages printed up from old message boards in my file cabinet—they will be cut into fourths for scratch and scribble paper. About in the middle of this chore (did I mention I absolutely LOVE decluttering?), as I was going down memory lane, reading excerpts of original poetry and viewing colorful creations in various mediums, I suddenly came to the realization that I have raised six children! 


This first "set" of children were born between the years of 1983 and 1991—and the average time between births then was 15 months. This means they were quite close together in age, so when the ball started rolling and they began to leave, it was all over fairly quickly.


Some left well, others not so well, but they are all pretty good kids. Even though I am not there to oversee things, I am confident they are still under God's care, and I still see evidences of His working in their lives.

Let's get organized

Unlike the majority mothers who have raised six children, I still have nine at home. It's our "second set". Our 18-year-old daughter is the oldest now—she is the one who gets to enjoy the responsibility without the respect or authority—it just goes with the territory! She considers it her chance to shine and learn until she should become a wife and mother with a home of her own to manage.


I am so thrilled to have these children here with me—I didn't realize so many years ago just how much having them would bless me at this age, a time of life associated with emptiness in our culture.


But my life is so full! My house is not silent, it is animated and flourishing. There are towels on the bathroom floor, shoes in the hallway and countless fingerprints on the stairway. I've found an open jar of peanut butter in the cupboard, and muddy sneakers are drying in the garage. Some are playing lively games of Uno, two are teaming up to do some blogging, still others are reading or sewing. The baby is twirling and singing Cinderella songs, a toothbrush in each hand, all this magnificent activity surrounds me as I write this post.


I get to sing old songs to sweet children who don't criticize my voice, dance and play with vigor, smile and laugh at the same jokes I have heard for more than 25 years. I have of course, along the way, enjoyed memorizing more stories from Dr. Seuss and classic fairy tales, not to mention discovering entirely new works.

A wonderful gift from God!

And, as a bonus, I also have grandchildren! I am learning how to delicately balance being the mother of young children, and a grandmother all at the same time. The understanding as to the why's and how's of the journey of motherhood (or fatherhood for that matter) is being much more appreciated by my grown daughters and sons each passing day—this adds a new dimension to our relationships.


I know that many years ago, when I was young and not so sure of myself, I stumbled along and coped with all sorts of immaturities. But one thing I know, I always loved my babies! Not one of them can say I neglected them, or that I was distant and detached, not one can say that I failed to show them wholehearted love and affection. I have some regrets, but not those of putting my little ones to the side in favor of "more important things". No matter who said what, I stuck to my guns and made mothering my ardent profession; a life-long commitment!


I'm still employed in this awesome undertaking, only the children I am presently raising enjoy the benefit of having an experienced mother at the helm. I am not as capricious as I used to be, or naive for that matter. I also can spot a lie or a "fudge" a mile away—something I remind them all of quite frequently!


I'm older now and tire a little more easily, but I never tire of them.

Little princesses

The other day, when the little girls were happily scribbling together, I just had to have them explain their pictures. I truly think each of them is better than the greatest artist ever born—they are so unique and creative (and sometimes I can actually decipher what they have drawn before they tell me).


I treasure watching them discover new things. I witness the changes their bodies go through. I'm observing strong young men and beautiful young women grow up before my very eyes. How fleeting the time has been!


In the wisdom of this age, I am considered a backward woman. I am supposed to be thinking of "myself", all of the things I could be accomplishing and doing, etc.


But, thanks be to God, I don't have to—I choose to continue to embrace the call of motherhood!


—This will be my last post for three or four weeks as my family and I will be taking some much needed vacation time. I should be back after the middle of July.


Sherry