Thoughts On Family

Growing up the eldest son of a family of four was an adventure. I was the experimental child. Mom and Dad experimented all their 'theories' of child rearing on me. And fortunately none of it resulted in any permanent damage. This weekend caused me to revisit those days afresh as we ventured to see our son and his family for their 'dedication' of our their lives to raise up our grandson in a godly home. Otherwise known as a baby dedication service.

The service was special as not only Dodge was dedicated but so was his cousin Landry. It also didn't hurt that Stephen sang a song of dedication that he wrote on the day of Dodge's birth.

Following the service we went back to their home as all my daughter in laws brothers, sisters and in-laws descended for dinner. When the 25 plus adults and kids landed, it reminded me of those weekends at Papa's when all my Dad's 8 siblings (5 married) with my cousins. A noise filled house of adults, kids and grandkids eating, visiting, and playing brought back some joyful memories. It was always great to play in the trees, the hay barn or just out in the front yard.

In the midst of the joy also came the realization that I no longer was one of the cousins, nor was I one of the siblings. I was one of the grandfathers! To quote my daughter, "...when did I get this old?" It's amazing, since I get paid to teach kids to play games!

Final thought: Its great to have family and extended family that you can spend time with. I look forward to the days ahead watching my grandkid(s) grow up, play games and some day prayerfully enter a relationship with God through Christ.