Sometimes I have to stop and reflect on how blessed we are as a family to be surrounded by people who invest in our lives and the lives of our kids. I think about what our life would be like if we didn't live close to family. If we lived in a big city with big schools. If we didn't have a solid church family. If my kids weren't involved in activities they enjoyed. If all we had was us. Us isn't bad, but our life is richer and fuller because of where we live and what we do and who we surround ourselves with.
Our families are our biggest support. My kids have two sets of grandparents who are very present in their lives. They have aunts and uncles and cousins that they love spending time with. But it's not just immediate family that we are blessed with. My kids have great aunts and uncles, neighbors, church family, youth leaders, school teachers, older kid friends, and family friends who support them, enjoy them, mentor them, and love them.
As I was going through pictures from the past few months, I came across a few pictures of my kids during various lessons. I began to think about those people who are helping my kids grow in the things they love. Their piano teacher doesn't just teach them piano. She is interested in their other activities and gives them little treats on holidays and is excited about their successes. Their singing instructor fits in extra sessions to get them ready for performances and has used her own time to make adjustments to their music and is always so positive and supportive. Their school teachers send home notes of encouragement and are invested in my kids not just academically but personally. Their Sunday School teachers and youth leaders pray for them and connect with them and care about their spiritual growth. I feel so blessed that my kids are surrounded by people who want the best for them and are helping to make that happen.
