A Normal Family

Went to church yesterday morning. You probably read on Andrew's blog about the potluck. I tell you this one was great. My kids "suffered" through the entrees to get to the much more appealing desert table.

I was made aware of my kids appearance. I forgot to remind my son the night before that his hair was really greasy. I normally need to do the 6 point check with him in the morning (clean face, teeth, hair, armpits, socks and unders). Samuel seems to feel a sense of victory when he can get one of these by me.

As I was quickly throwing something on myself Abigail was telling me how she got herself and Tamara ready. She has always been a especially creative and individual dresser, which can be wonderful and/or scary. Abigail was especially excited about the perfume and the sparkles part. Well, they were definately smelling like girls and their hair was greased down with body glitter. I really have two choices at this point. I can scream, try to resurrect some resemblance of a normal family and risk crushing a spirit. OR I can focus on the smiles of shear joy of expression and individuality on their faces and remember the choice that I make over and over and over again to let their spirits soar and realize that children keep us humble and transparent by showing what we might prefer to hide, and that is a real good thing, it is great thing. If I fight it I just get frustrated.

We have a song that we love in this family. It is a Creed song and part of it says, "Children, don't stop dancing. Believe you can fly." We sing it at maximum volume and spread our arms as wings and dance around the room (well, most of the dancing is done by the female part of the family). I pray this for my children almost daily. I pray that a part of them will remain as children,they will never forget that they can dance with joy no matter how hard life may get and that their spirits will soar with hope. Sometimes I think I am a bit of a doomsday person and want my kids to be prepared to thrive in all circumstances. Thriving that is independant of money and comfort. I think I am rambling this morning. The area of individuality is quite intertwined with alot of other areas in my life. Just to make sure things sunk in. Hannah decided to go to school as a superhero this morning, complete with mask and towel cape.

P.S. Second photo is from the Jones archives and a similar experience, not from yesterday morning.

Comments

[magz]

I loved that you let Hannah design and make her own outfit to wear to our wedding! She looked wonderful and her pink hair is still legendary amongst those who attended. I particularly liked the net wings sprouting from her back! Fashion is such an angst ridden discourse these days. we need to see more people like you guys free up its expressive potential again.

[Isaac]

your blog is moving and beautiful. As the father of 2 (3 and 2 1/2 months) I am challenged and encouraged by your words and images.

Thanks for sharing...

[Stephanie]

I'm so enjoying reading about your family and friends. Thanks for all the great insights. My 6 and 3 year olds are very 'unique' from each other and from the rest of the world! I know our 3rd that is coming in november will be just as 'different' as the rest of us.

Steph - Mom to Asher, Evie, and a little alien growing inside me. (And someone who very much envies your dreads!)