Jen, here! I’m trying to do better with utilizing this space to have memories to look back on (most likely more fun posts are coming, but no promises, ha!) as well as process some things that the Lord has been teaching me, so here we go!

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about how each month and year with our boys is different. Each age has its own special joys, as well as the very noticeable things that make it challenging. From the sleep deprivation of the newborn phase to navigating the big emotions that come with toddlerhood, each season (and struggle) comes with a reason to depend on the Lord and thank Him for sweet blessings.

I’ve had to catch myself several times looking forward to a different season; say, when middle-of-the-night wakings aren’t so frequent or I’m not constantly being spoken to by a little chatterer (who always wants a response). Each time I catch myself wishing this time away in exchange for less dependent people, I am reminded that along with the hard parts of this time come the oh-so-enjoyable and heart-melting moments as well. I think of how earnestly Oliver says hi and bye to passing cars, often accompanied by a blown kiss. I think of how, oftentimes, all it takes to get Winston to smile is just eye contact and an acknowledgment of his presence; instantly you know how happy he is to see you. These little joys change from season to season, and I want to soak them in for however long each one lasts. I am so frequently made aware of my inability to parent well in my own strength and am thankful that the Lord doesn’t expect that of me. It encourages me to remember that He presents me with those challenges that feel overwhelming to remind me that I need to turn to Him for help.

One of the most difficult aspects of being a mama is feeling like I am doing little things, over and over, all day long. I am encouraged to remember that the Lord often uses those faithful acts of service for my sanctification.

Whatever season or struggle we are facing, we can know that the Lord is with us, and He is always able to reveal good alongside the difficult. Every season of parenthood (and life) has its ups and downs and it’s up to us to choose to rejoice in the sweet moments and rely on the Lord for whatever we need to make it through the challenges.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9