Of Things Hoped For

The other day as we were gathered around the breakfast table, my lovely daughter Janai pointed out to me that most likely one day our family will be almost twice the size.

Twice the size?

Did she know something I didn't know?

"Yes, Mommy," she stated matter-of-factly all the while smiling,"you see if you have five sons and three daughters right now and we all eventually get married, that means you will be adding on five daughters and three sons for a total of 8 sons and 8 daughters."

I stared at her. I had never thought of it that way.

Five more daughters and three sons.

The mere thought brought tears to my eyes (and even now as I type this).

Could they really be out there somewhere? Could my heart be swelling up with love for 8 complete strangers that I don't even know right now whom of which will grace our family with their presence one day?

Surely, I have always dreamed of being a grandmother but to also have other sons and daughters to love and care for---I had never thought about such an honor in depth like this.

I hope I will remember all the things I'd like to do when my children are older. I would love to have them over all the time--especially once a week for dinner. I would love to help them out with their new homes and buy the little things that newlyweds/parents/grandbabies need...I want to express unconditional love and treat their spouses as if they were my own...I want to watch the grandchildren and have them over often...I'd love to host all the major holidays and the list goes on.

Sometimes around the dinner table, the children and I get to talking about the future once they are married and in their own homes. They share how this sister will visit their older sister and bring cookies and help plant a garden. How younger sister will cook a big dinner and invite all her older hungry brothers to her home. How little brother will go to older sisters home and mow the grass just to help out. I add to their thoughts by painting the picture of huge family get-togethers with all the children and grandchildren at my house with loads of food and what fun it will be!

These are some of my favorite family conversations. These are some of my most cherished dreams. I believe conversation regarding the future, close ties while they are young and fostering their walk with God now helps to lay the groundwork for keeping close relationships when they actually do get married. Whether they live close by or far away...

...these are the things that I hope for.

And for those special 'eight' I have yet to meet, I am praying for you as you wander this earth before the Lord brings you here--that God would keep you safe, far from evil and on the right path.

We love you and can't wait to meet you one day!