Finally, I took Caleb and my bikes when I went to pick him up from school so that we could practice while we waited to pick up sissy. What a joy it was to see his confidence soar as he was able to start and stop by himself! He cannot stop talking about it and told me that biking is his “new” favorite passtime activity. Ahh… great validation for Daddy!
As I was sitting there watching him ride all around, I could not help but think about the time I first rode the bike… I taught myself by watching my older brother and other kids. I don’t remember where my Dad was nor whether or not he felt any inclination to teach his children. My memories of my childhood are often like this: I remember the event but don’t know where Dad was. At least in the teaching-your-kid-how-to-ride-a-bike category, with Caleb and Cosette, my experience has me improving on the daddy’s role of the To family.
My feelings of elation from watching my children led me to think of how God feels when I finally “get it” in an area He has been trying to teach me. It humbles me to think of His never waning patience waiting for me to come around. I barely have enough patience when my children don’t get it the first time around and this convicts me thoroughly. How precious and necessary then that I should die to myself and let Him have it all. Unfortunately, God is still waiting for this to happen…
Only three more whole days of spending time with the family before I depart for Fort Jackson. The pain of misssing them is already present.
February 1, 2007 at 10:23 am |
I Luv you, daddy. We all miss you. Caleb spent his first night without you on your side of the bed. I finished Tuck Everlasting! It was really good. When you settle down or something, then we can video conference. XOXO -Cosette
February 1, 2007 at 10:35 am |
By the way, Happy February 1st! Time has gone by so fast this bright new year.
Only 13 more days until Valentines day! Don’t forget to open all of our valentines! My heart hurts for you and Mom on that day.
Only 14 more days until Grandma and Grandpa arrive. We are all looking forward to that hour but wish you could be here with us to celebrate.
Only 17 more days ’till my 13th birthday party! I wish you to be here with us. I’ll send you tons of pix.
Only 25 more days ’till my big day! I’ll think of you most often; we all will.
Only about 68 more days until you come back to our reaching arms. We’re all counting down, but the big numbers seem to deepen our sadness.
Keeping busy is a great way NOT to think about the sad stuff, but it also makes the nice, quiet times more painful. We miss you greatly, Dad.
Kisses and Hugs, Cosette