We Didn’t Realize We Were Making Memories
Day 200 of Photo Inspirations — We Didn’t Realize We Were Making Memories
Being in WA at this time of the year is on purpose. #1 child (in order of birth debuts) has a birthday, and each year that goes by, I become more and more nostaglic. SPOILER ALERT! That’s what happens as the years go by. Your love for them and all the memories they’ve given you that are indelibly imprinted in your mind, continue to give you such pride and joy. And, all you Mamas and Papas out there, you might as well realize you’ll never get over the awe of the accomplishments and abilities of your kids…..and most of all, that you were in partnership with God in bringing these amazing human beings into this world. WOW! That’s a mind-boggling thought. From being amazed and delighted at their debut, their first step, their first tooth, their first day of school, their first fish, their first girl or boy friend, their first job, their first love, their first child…….and on and on — the spectacular firsts and the incredible goals met and watching so many of their dreams coming true. Every dollar we spent on education, every moment we spent in training them up in the ways they should go, every tear we shed when they left the nest to be on their own — were seeds that we watered with our love and prayers — and now we get to enjoy the sweet fruits of our labors!
My boy’s birthday is actually tomorrow, the 24th, but I just had to make a point on this #TBT of some of the sweetest memories. It seems fishing has always been a part of our family fun. The first photo here is the year before Ryan’s Dad (my sweetheart) passed away. It was Dad’s birthday and Ryan gave him a trip-of-a-lifetime. Complete with a fishing guide to take them to the exact spots to fly fish and bring in lots of rainbow trout. It was their last fishing trip together, and what a priceless memory Ryan has of bringing his Dad so much enjoyment. And, oh what joys I have of watching Ryan carrying forward that love and tradition to his boys (second photo). The third photo is Ryan’s first big fish catch at Table Rock Lake in Missouri. And the last photo is him with one of his biggest catches at Cabo San Lucas — just a few days after his Dad graduated to heaven. I think Dad had something to do with that catch.
Not only am I having memories on this #TBT, but I’m counting my blessings that continue to bring my life so much joy and pleasure. My greatest blessings call me MOM and Nana — and on this day, I’m especially thankful for that little man God blessed us with. Happy Birthday, Son! You’ve always rocked our world and I think to myself….What a Wonderful World It Is!