Last night Gabe and I were up late talking about “TRADITION”. We were trying to remember some of the fondest memories that we had as a child. We agreed that it is extremely important to build lasting memories for the kids. Memories that can be shared with their future spouses or carried on with a family of their own. We pondered many things that can be done that don’t cost an arm and a leg. We thought of ice cream sundaes, $1 hot chocolates, pet store visits, picnics, movie night with tents & popcorn, holiday decorating and games. Neither one of us could remember anything that we did traditionally on a weekly basis. Both of us came to the conclusion that we need to work at giving these kids strong family memories. On Labor Day the whole family had kings hats and a queen hat with a nice simple dinner. There was a card at every table setting explaining what we were most thankful for about a persons labor for the family. Every holiday the table is going to be decorated with a theme, and a scripture verse, story, or game to go along with.
One thing that Gabe does remember is riding his skateboard with his friends outside and getting lots of fresh air and sunlight which is very healthy. He wished that his parents could have taken part in watching him learn how to skate.
After church we eat, and then off to the park for skateboard lessons. I am stoked because I rarely get out with the kids that much anyway. Gabe is excited because he gets to relive the glory days for a few moments as he demonstrates some turning moves on the board.
As Trippity and I watch from the sidelines, Zeekie boldly attempts to do everything Calvin or Dad does. Calvin strays off in the distance to practice how to balance and turn on his board.
Our desire is that whatever they do they will do it all for the glory of God. If they grow up to dislike skateboarding than at least they can say that every Sunday afternoon, my Mom and Dad took us to the park to burn off some energy. Whatever they enjoy, we will make every effort to be there for them and support and encourage them in that decision. We want our children to have building blocks of memories to share, and a legacy of Love and respect for the Lord.
2 comments:
Jannette!! I love your last blog about traditions. You and Gabe are doing an awesome job with your children. No one will ever say you haven’t given 110% to raising you children with love and encouragement.
There is an idea I heard but have yet to implement that I thought I’ll pass on to you. The idea is to get a plate, a special decorative one that stands out. Perhaps red or with artwork. And on each family member’s birthday, or a day they made a special achievement, or maybe a day they need cheering up, they get that plate for dinner. And the rest of the family goes around and says encouraging things they like about that person.
Well, you have so inspired me that I’m putting that plate on my “to-do” list for the week.
Keep up the great parenting…it’s a blessing to your kids and everyone you share it with.
Love,
Laura
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Are you kidding!! our Sunday tradition will be to swallow something before church so our stomachs don't growl during service, rush to church, get a sugar high from the donut after, run in circles as mommy prepares the lesson for AWANA, go back to church, pick up some junk food eat and got to bed.
Tradition has always been inconsistent. It is vital that they have something to remember. I remember always going to restaurants and ordering whatever I wanted, making huge holiday dinners and nobody ever coming over, and quiet Christmas with gifts, food, and football and no family. Prasie God you are making a change.
This tradition sounds fun. remeber to get a storage container and stick it in your garage to save maybe crafts they may make with clay, or laminate the paper ornaments, stick them in teh box and use them to redecorate the next year and add to your collection. They will not only rememebr the silly item they made but the verse behind it.
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