We have spent the last month watching old home movies, videos from when our kids were babies, toddlers and preschoolers. It all started when I finally ordered the VHS-C converter thing-a-ma-bob (yes, that is the technical term), so that we could watch them on our VCR. We started with a video when our youngest, Riley, was born. Hannah was around eight, Sydney was six and Colin was three. What struck me the most right away was that each of the kids had the same personality traits then that they do today, 11 years later.
Hannah, the ultimate first born, was definitely in charge. Even at eight years old, she was leading the way as the girls recited stories, sang songs and acted out their favorite movies. In one video, they were putting on a play that mimicked Star Wars. It may have been directed by Sydney, but make no mistake, Hannah was whispering in Sydneys ear so she knew what to say and what to do. And Sydney was looking up to Hannah trying to be exactly like her.
Colin? Well at three years old, he was running around pretending to be Luke Skywalker, the hero of the play, fighting the bad guys and winning the girl. He is still the hero of the family and is always there to help anyone who needs help and pitch in when life gets busy.
As I watched those little faces and heard those perfect little voices from the past, I was reminded of who my children used to be. I could see so many of their personality traits from today shining through their little eyes from back then. One of my favorite things about watching the home movies was actually hearing their little voices. It was as if I was reliving those times with them all over again. I had forgotten what they sounded like, and I had forgotten some of the funny things they used to say.
From Hannahs But .I have to run, to Sydney saying Me, too when dad said he was tired, their little voices whispered in my ears and reminded me of who they were. And as I looked across the family room to their very grown-up faces watching the home movies, giggling at the memories, I also discovered that as much as time changes things, some things will always stay the same.
Hannah will continue to lead others in her life, even as she heads off to college in the fall. I know she will be a leader on campus. Sydney will continue to reach out to others and make sure they feel loved and welcome. Colin will continue to help out with those in need whomever they are and Riley, well, Riley will continue to make us smile through the journey of life.
I could sit and watch our old home movies for hours at a time. In fact, time seems to stand still as the memories play on in front of me on the TV screen. Motherhood is definitely a lifelong journey and I love watching my children live, learn and grow. The years have definitely flown by, and I am thankful we have the home movies to remind us that no matter how much things seem to change, our kids are uniquely created by God to be who they are meant to be. I guess I am just along for the ride.
Guess Id better buckle up.
