One Girl's Faith Journey: World's Worst Baby Book Mama

There are mamas I know who have baby books & scrapbooks for their children that would challenge the work of the world's top graphic designers. To all of these mamas, "I salute you." For you see, I am, admittedly, the world's worst baby book mama.

For our first son Thomas, I bought a baby book. Faithfully, for the first six weeks of his life, I documented important events....you know what I'm talking about, things like how much he weighed, what time he was born, who came to visit, what gifts he received.

When our daughter Abby arrived almost 7 years later, I believe I bought a baby book, but don't quote me, and heavens, please don't ask me where it resides.....those pages only made it thru the first few days.

Four years ago, on New Year's Eve Day, at 12:02pm, Jack Henry entered the scene.

Ok, so you may have guessed by now..... no baby book. This time however; I'm quite sure I saved the money - a girl finally begins to know herself around age 40 you know. ;)

Truth be told, I used to really feel guilty. Guilty that I hadn't been a good mama and taken proper notes, guilty that good mamas had these beautiful books documenting everything from their child's first guests to their first teeth to their first steps................ just plain guilty..........but you know what? {deep cleansing breath} I don't feel that guilt anymore. (a girl realizes a whole lotta things around age 40)

           There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. - Romans 8:1

Keeping a prestigious baby book doesn't determine my ability to be a good mama. Loving my kiddos unconditionally, encouraging them, nurturing them, building them up, valuing them, and showing them The Way....that's what makes me a good mama. (*note: not a perfect mama, there is no such thing. Let go of that mommy guilt immediately)

It was hearing the Christmas story found in Luke Chapter 2 again this year that originally inspired this post. I have mentioned before that each year, when I read.....and hear........and soak in the words of this incredible love story, God shows me something *new*..................................... This year, my heart rested on these three incredible verses.....

                    When they [the shepherds] had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. ♥ Luke 2:17-19

Mary didn't have a baby book. No Snapfish or Shutterfly either. Not even a Nikon CoolPix to capture the Savior's first smile. BUT MARY TREASURED.........Mary PONDERED............Mary STORED UP each and every moment and embedded them in her heart.

That's what a good mama does you know. ♥

Happy Birthday my sweet Jack Henry - You are forever engraved on your Mama's Heart. ♥