And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. ~Mark 10:13-16
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My children and their friends eating popcicles.
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Running through sprinklers, playing at the park, fishing, swimming, eating ice cream, laughing, playing, golfing, catching fireflies, vacationing, and biking…these are just a few things I can’t wait to do this Summer with my children…. I’m so excited for school to be out so I can have all of my ducklings in a row and at home with me. At ages 7, 5 and 2 years old I’m sure they will keep me running this year, but all the memories will be well worth all of the energy spent.
Since I can remember I’ve always wanted to be a mom….my life is my dream come true. Even more, I’ve always wanted to be “that mom” and live in “that home” where other children want to come and play. The mom who bakes chocolate chip cookies and makes lemonade…the mom who loves all of the children deeply like Jesus did and does.
Being “that mom” is a meal ministry in itself….I can’t count how many batches of cookies I’ve made, gallons of kool aid I’ve served, and popcicles I’ve handed out. To be honest, It is actually my favorite ministry. It is such an honor to be part of a child’s life. I am so thankful to live in a neighborhood filled with sweet children, and have so many friends with children that I can help. What a blessing!
As Summer rolls around, I pray that you too will feel called to be “that mom” for all the children in your life….is truly is so special.
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| The neighbors and my son playing Star Wars in the yard. |
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| My daughter and her friend making sundaes. |
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| My children and more friends with “olive fingers”. |
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| I took my friend’s little girl on a “Build a Bear” day trip with my girls! We had so much fun. Of course, ice cream was a must! |
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| My children with more friends! We all made cookies together…so sweet. |
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| My friend’s little girl…we made cupcakes for her birthday! |
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| Our next door neighbors came over for some rootbeer floats! I have had these little ones over for 6 years…wow, has time flown and how they have grown!
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Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.
~Charles R. Swindoll
These memories are priceless….Thank you Lord for blessing me with my own children and allowing me to be a part of the lives of other children.
Love to you,
Janelle
Wonderful Janelle! I just thought I would let you know that my baby boy is singing along to 'What a wonderful World' – he just loves music and yes, now your blog posts are ministering to a little child on the other side of the world! He's teething today and 'I hear babies cry' is totally relevant. He has been miserable but this has really cheered him up! Thank you!
I love your post Janelle!I believe in happy childhood memories..these children will never forget you till their old age.
Ann, that is SUCH a sweet thought~ awww, teething is so hard! Popcicles help, lol! Marelie, thank you 😉 It is such an honor to be part of childhood memories. Wow. Love to you, Janelle
What a blessing, I want to be your neighbor. Thank you for the encouragment. Blessings!
Adrienne
Btw, where did you get your gorgeous place mats? I have been looking forever and everywhere for some like that. Black and White with the frilly print. Thanks and God Bless you sis!
Adrienne
Thanks Adrienne! I got my placemats at Hartville Collectables 😉 I love them, they are reversible! wohoo!
YaY!! Lovely post:) Here is to being "That Mom"…I think you are:)
I am so counting the days until the end of school too:) Love all my babies at home with me, and I aspire to be 'That Mom" Too! 🙂
Great post.
Julieann
Hi Janelle! I love the challenge in this post! I often have other children at my house and sometimes struggle with the chaos that ensues. I am making a conscious effort to just have fun!!! Household things, work, etc can always wait while you make the difference (and memories) in the life of a child!
I just found your site today and am following! I can always use recipes, as I am a 'reformed' 'kitchen hater'. LOL! It's not something that comes naturally to me, but I am learning and somewhat enjoying cooking and baking for my family. I hope for it to become something I don't have to MAKE myself do in the future. Thanks for the awesome site for reference!
You are a great mom! You have blessed children!
Thanks so much Julieann…Nicole, you are SO welcome! I am cracking up "Kitchen hater" lol!!! I am a "closet hater" any chance you like to organize?! That is my downfall! So funny how God gives us all different gifts, isn't it?! I hope I can be a resource for you, my new friend. Missie…what a sweet encouragement you are. Love to you, Janelle
What a great post! Being "that mom" is definitely a ministry. Janelle, let that light shine for Jesus as you love on your neighbor kids and your children's friends. Just what Jesus wants!