madameblogalot

I have a couple of traditions for each of my kids’ birthdays. As yesterday was my son’s 16th birthday, I spent the day in concentrated prayer for him and the different needs in his life. I began this tradition two years ago. It has made a real impact on me and has been a source of encouragement for my kids.

Another thing I do on their birthday is to write in a journal dedicated to each child. I began this before my son was born. I do write in the books on occasions through the year, but not usually. It is mostly filled with entries on their birthday (or just past in a couple years.) I am planning to give these journals to my kids, probably when they turn 18, but I have not decided just yet. I can’t look through the journals too often, I get too emotional. I was really good about writing in them when the kids were small. I wrote their likes and dislikes and milestones as well as my emotions. I guess as they got older it got harder to put some of these things down, as my emotions were not always sugary sweet during pre-adolescence and these turbulent teen years. But I think it’s fair for them to know it has not always been easy (I am sure they know it anyway!) Usually, though I jot down how they have grown and some ways they are exhibiting that growth. I think it will be a nice thing for them to read when they get old enough to really appreciate it (maybe not til they have their own child, I don’t know…) I hope to continue these traditions for my kids and that it will continue to make an impact on their lives.