Memories

Memories: We all have them. But how selective are we in what we remember? I've been thinking about things in the past, and wanting to jot a few notes about my own memories with my kids, because I thought we had some really great times (in spite of how things turned out in the long run).... but... is how I remember it really how it was? Are the memories I thought I was creating with the kids what they remember?

Take, for example, the blended family we created when I moved to Ohio. We were all getting to know each other, and as expected, it was quite the adjustment for the kids. Needless to say, there were a few altercations and harsh words on occasion. And after a particularly rough day, it was like "OK, enough is enough, something's got to give." (At this point in time, I was a stay at home mom to these six wonderful kids, but some days weren't so wonderful!)

It had been a rather squabbling type day, and the kids had finally settled into watching TV. So, in order to lighten up the entire mood of the day (keep in mind, I can be rather goofy from time to time.. hehehe) , I decided to dig in my "treasure bag of goodies" and pulled out a bag of Nerf balls. I show my "partner in crime" what I've got and with a grin, we head into the family room, balls hidden, but at the ready. We casually stand there behind the sofa, checking out the scene. A couple of the kids glance back, checking out why the 'rents are in the room. No one says anything, they just go back to watching their show. One look at each other, and we know its time, so we rear back and lob a couple of balls at the kids, and grab a couple more. All in all, a dozen balls get thrown into the room. And no sooner do the kids feel the incoming that they get up off their collective duffs and begin lobbing them back at us. Rocket, the dog, goes nuts and thinks this game is GREAT! Lots of laughter ensues, and the war goes on, back and forth, adults against the kids. And the kids are smiling, laughing, and even better, they're kind of bonding. It's no longer "us against them" between the six of them, its them against the 'rents! (and no, as I recall, they did NOT beat us!! hahahaha) Those were some great times, and a major turning point in the overall scheme of "everyone getting along". But more imporant, it was the start of some great family memories. (and, of course, they realized the new mom was somewhat of a nut!)

Now I'm wondering two things: Do they remember it the way I do? And is it among their own fave family memories??

When it comes down to the end of our time on Earth, all we have is our memories, all we take with us is our memories... so drag out your fave memory and share it with someone in your family!

HUGS to everyone!