The Best of Me
Terry and I became parents at ages 20 and 21; our children are the most precious thing we've built together. They represent the very best of us and remind me daily of how lucky I was to have had a husband who loved and nurtured his children as fiercely as I did. We made magic with each of them, and I am in awe of how God continues to shape and mold their lives.
Austin, the first of three, taught me to love completely and as deep as the marrow in my bones. I remember the first time he said, 'I love you, Mom,' and how it filled my heart with joy. His face and laughter brought so much joy to our families, and his existence ushered in a season of joy like nothing I had ever experienced. Steady and wise, he has grown to be a man of impeccable character, conviction, and honor. My baby knows what hard work is, rises to the occasion daily, and does so with a tenderness of heart towards the world. His innate wisdom is truly a gift from God.
Ashland, the middle child and only girl, taught me that love can be complex and riddled with various emotions. As is expected, she and I had epic battles during her teenage years, but she was learning to step into the fullness of who she has always been. Ashland was sassy as a child and has grown to be a fiercely independent woman. Oh, how she takes my breath away. The girl can silence a room with her graceful presence and confidence. She is discerning and cautious about her inner circle, and her judgment is impeccable. She's confident, funny, and iconic; I am in complete awe.
Abram, my youngest, is a boy for all seasons. He is one of the most adaptable people I've ever met. It's his superpower. He can connect with the energy of everyone he encounters, and then he magically mirrors this energy to celebrate and enjoy whomever he is with. Abram is also uniquely himself and seems to understand how to stand his ground while acknowledging another person's uniqueness. He knows what he likes and who he trusts, and he moves through the world with confidence only born of Christ. He is my heart and soul, and watching him slip away into manhood is so bittersweet, but I can't wait to see how God will continue to shape him for a higher purpose.
Though we aren't perfect, Terry and I created three of the most amazing human beings the world has ever known together. This post is my opportunity to let each of them know how unabashedly proud I am to be their mamma. You three human beings are the best thing that ever happened to me.