Treasure Them or Revelations at Target

I was in Target (a.k.a. my sanctuary) changing Gemma's diaper (a slight disturbance of my tranquility) and a woman who was washing her hands looked over at us and smiled.

"I remember those days,"

Now, anyone with a child, especially a baby, hears these comments from time to time, maybe even frequently. I smiled and turned my head about to say something pointless and impersonal in response when she added,

"..and now I am sending candy to my boys overseas. You've really got to treasure them while you can."

And then, I pointlessly and impersonally responded, "it goes so fast," and smiled with my head tilted towards the floor, just barely making eye contact.

Now, if you know me, you know that I hate really do not like commenting on how fast the time is going. Partially because, time is just time, and I know this. It doesn't flow fast or flow slow, and that it is all about our perception. I like to percieve that time is on my side.

Mostly though, I do not like talk of such things because I am so afraid it might be true.


That was the first deep conversation I had with myself while perusing the dollar section and enjoying my soft pretzel, but for some reason, this woman and our short conversation were still in my thoughts.

I was also thinking about how she said, "...and now I am sending candy to my boys overseas."

Now, I am not sure if I am correct or not in my assumption, but something in this woman's tone tells me that I may have been spot on in assuming she was telling me that her babies are in a war zone.

I must admit, that I am not a fan of this war (to put it lightly). And to be completely honest, I haven't always had a lot of sympathy for those who serve. I have always thought of it as a choice that these men and women make, and I never really got the argument that it was indeed a sacrifice.

Until today.

Now, I am still not a fan of this war (and that is still putting it lightly)...

But.

The thought of that mother. With her babies. Overseas.

It makes my heart skip, just a little. Especially as I look down. At my baby. In my arms.

And I realize, that there is no way these men and women look at is as just a job. No way.

The stakes are too high.

Motherhood continues to open my eyes (and my heart) everyday.

My conversation today, was a  big reminder to treasure it (motherhood), treasure them (those that serve), and treasure her (my little Gem.)

Because really...

it goes so fast

P.S. Thank you so much for your March of Dimes donation. If anyone else would still like to donate, you can still do so up until the walk this Saturday.

P.P.S. Easter was celebrated (and enjoyed) by Gemma and I, but I have been a major picture uploading slacker so far this week, so hopefully, I will have something up by next Easter. Hopefully.