Babies, Babies, Babies!

Well as of a week and a half ago, I am no longer employed at NorthPointe Christian Schools. It feels good... I know that I am where God wants me. At the same time, it is a little scary not having a full time job. I am now employed watching my niece, Jessi, for the summer. I watch her on M, W, and F. It is a bittersweet job... I LOVE having her here and I feel like a mommy on the days that I watch her. I guess that's the bitter part. The fact that she leaves at the end of the day. Granted, I'm exhausted and ready for break, but nothing compares to cuddling with that precious baby girl during the day. Feeding her and watching her play and learn to roll over and now teeth. It's just amazing. Some days I just sit and stare at her, because she is such a testimony of God's love. Such a picture of our Creator. Not just her, but any baby.

My living room now holds a toy bin and a baby swing. If you go in the dining room, you will find Jessi's pack 'n play. One step in the garage and you will spot the stroller that we use for walks. And finally, a glimpse of her in the truck where her carseat base is buckled in awaiting our next ride to the grocery store or to see Grandma and Grandpa Smith. It's those things that make the sweetness of having her M, W, F, a bit bitter... those reminders of what I long for, but don't have. I'm not complaining though... I will take every moment I am given with her and I will praise God for those moments during the moments I don't have her.

It's funny, the things we think we will do as parents. For instance, all those baby contraptions I mentioned... I always thought when we had children, I'd have to have a specific place for them and they'd all have to match and I be senile about keeping all the things picked up and in order. It's amazing how those things kind of fly out the window. I realize that the thing that is most important, is not whether my house is in tip top shape, although it usually tends to be... but more importantly whether I am spending quality time with my family. So I admit, my house is not neat during the day.. toys are strewn on the floor, bottle lay on the couch and nearest stand, their are spots of powdery formula on the counter, and blankets and dirty clothes lie where they were dropped. And you know what.. that's ok. After Jessi leaves, I go around and tidy these things, knowing throughout the day, that they will always be there when I get to them... the baby, though, someday she's going to grow up and I won't have those precious moments with her. Goodness! I sound like she's mine. I don't mean it that way... not in the least... I mean it as an aunt who has the privilege of caring for her niece for 3 days a week. I love that little girl and all of my nieces and nephews. What a treat it is to be able to share in her milestones as a baby.

Speaking of nieces and nephews... About an hour ago, I received the call I've been waiting for, for 2 days! Nikki finally had her baby, my newest niece. Mackenna Autumn weighed in at 8lbs, 13oz; was 20 1/2 inches long and I hear she has chubby little cheeks, just like a Guernsey. I am keeping myself busy and writing this blog so that I do not loose my mind, pack my bags, jump in the truck, and head down there to kiss those cheeks. Instead, I will think about them all night long, have restless sleep, and get up tomorrow morning to head to Hastings to see them. Can't wait! I have a little onesie that I bought for her that says "Anything boys can do, Girls can do better!" Excited to give that to Nikki. It is so something she would put on her little girl.

Anyway... now you know why my post reads Babies, Babies, Babies! There are so many babies around... I love them, but I have to admit, I wish one of them were mine! Someday soon, maybe! Until then, I'll keep loving on the ones I have around me and enjoy every minute I spend with each of them. Thank you Lord, for those precious memories I am able to make with my nieces.