Wonderful friends and a refreshing afternoon

The kids and I were able to spend this morning (through lunch!) with some wonderful friends that we have not been able to spend "quality" time with in awhile. Don't you just love those times? While we missed services (and a huge stewardship lunch!) at our home church- it was just just so uplifting to be able to take a Sunday and do this. See- I sing in a praise band at our church, and any time I have to be gone I feel like I'm letting the band down. When an opportunity comes up like it did today- one in which we only had one combined service- and I didn't have to sing- I took my rare chance and went visiting! So fun and I'm looking forward to getting another Sunday to visit with other folks!

The afternoon was spent building fires (in both of our fireplaces... nice!) and playing board games. We had the best time, and although the girls did not let me win a single game (not even UNO!), we had an awesome time hanging out without any place to be.

In getting to spend the afternoon playing games in front of the fire with my kids I realized how many things I have taken for granted over the years. I never realized how important these times we have together as "family time" are. I mean- I knew it... but I didn't take it seriously. It's the total "cliche" you don't love what you've got until it's gone.

But then it made me think about my husband (is it weird that I can't call him my ex?). How on earth can he be willing to give up these precious times as a family. Can you really and truly grow to dislike being with one person so much that you are willing to sacrifice your time with your children? Is this a mom thing? Do dads not feel this way? I simply cannot fathom not being with my children a majority of the time. The times in my life I have been so busy that I have not been with them- well... I regret a lot of that time missed. Some of it was ok... some of it was self-care. Some of it was to help generate a better income for our family... regardless- I wish I had that time back.

So this makes me ask myself several questions...

1. What makes a good parent?
2. What makes a good spouse?
3. What makes a good friend?
4. What makes a good Christian?

Today I am thankful for the fun things I enjoyed with my kids. Even if we are not a whole family anymore- I am glad that I have my precious children. I miss my husband- but I can't imagine life without those babies.