Today, my youngest child turns two. How can this be? I can hardly wrap my head around it.

Oh, how I’ve enjoyed her baby years. Mabrey is a sweet, cuddly child, and a mama’s girl for sure. I must admit that I probably “baby” her more than I have the others since we currently do not have a little one on the way. Attachment parenting is more my style than not, and I love waking up with her sleeping next to my side each day.

I shed a few tears this week. Last Thursday I realized we only had one week left of her being one. I tried to cherish it, to drink it all in. Yesterday I was so sad. My husband was so kind to remind me that it is better to count our blessings instead of looking for the negative in a situation. And he is right. We have a daughter who is happy and healthy. Who could ask for more?

Happy 2nd Birthday Mabrey Hannah. Mama loves you more than you’ll ever know. (By the way, I had such fun decorating our Mary & Martha chalkboard tray for Mabrey.)

It is a blessing to watch each of our eight children grow. It is a blessing to raise them in the ways of the Lord. At the same time, having children is akin to my heart walking around outside of my body. Oh, how I want to protect them and keep them safe! My husband and I carefully construct boundaries to hopefully guard their mind, heart, and body. Some might consider me to be “overprotective,” but no. I truly believe that a high level of protection over our children should be normalized.

I imagine our Heavenly Father might feel the same way. If only we would walk in His ways. He longs to be our refuge and our shield!

As I’m saying goodbye to her “baby” years and fully embracing the active toddler that she has become, I hope and pray that my daughter will learn to love the Lord with all of her heart, soul, and mind. I pray that she seeks His instruction with her whole heart.

Leading our children in the ways of God is a gargantuan task, ladies. Oh, how I fail sometimes. Most of the time, actually. Sometimes I wonder what in the world I’m doing!

As I grow older, I’ve realized that I don’t need to read every parenting book to raise my children. I like to over complicate things. Everything we need is found in His Word. Simply reading scripture and having a family discussion is a wonderful place to start. Even our babies and toddlers can listen in. Seeds will be planted.

Instead of concentrating on saying goodbye, I need to say hello to Mabrey’s new stage of life with hope and exuberance. I pray that she will one day do great things for the kingdom of God. I’m so thankful for each and every one of my children!

Thank you so much for stopping by! I would love to connect with you on Facebook. I’d also like to invite you to my Mary & Martha Facebook Page, or to look at beautiful and inspiring Mary & Martha home decor. It is a such a blessing to serve you!

By the way, I also have a new line of mom tees in my Etsy shop. I hope you enjoy them!

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