Tradition reigned again this Valentine's Day. Every year since Ray and I have known each other, we have celebrated Valentine's Day the same way with very little variation. Ray cooks a special meal of steak and baked potatoes, I decorate the table with red and pink, we light candles and have soft music. Since we've had children we include them even if we can't always have our dinner on the fourteenth of February. (There was the year he and his friend David went to a men's conference, but we won't mention that again.) Rachel says that when she gets married she isn't going to share Valentine's Day with her kids. I just tell her to bring them to me. I want our children to learn what real love is.
As my earthly defender, protector, provider and comforter Ray sets the example for the the girls of what a good husband looks like. On birthdays and other special occasions he takes each daughter out on a date. And on Valentine's he gives chocolate and writes poems for them. Our prayer is that the girls will see what true love is and how love behaves every day. Our world gives ungodly examples of what love looks like. We as parents need to model the right way and point it out to our children. Every once in a while we will see a little evidence that something is sinking in. The girls always hand make cards for their sisters, Ray and me. The cards are so creative and fun and this year several cards even included poems. My favorite was the card I received with a certificate to clean out the turtle tank for me. I think someone is learning the gift of service to others and how it acts.
3 comments:
Lori, I think that is one of the best practical things Alpheus gleaned from Ray when he was here for our conference. Each girl really looks forward to her date with Daddy. I know one day they will realize that their father has set a very high standard for any future husbands to live up to!
Glad you had another wonderful celebration of the love of your husband and children!
Blessings, Eva
Lori,
Thanks for the book "Treasuring God in our Traditions" by Noel Piper. I can't say enough good about it. For those of us who grew up with little or no traditions or traditions of no value this book is so helpful. Although my children are grown and almost grown it's not to late to begin traditions and influence our children and our future grandchildren. I need to take care not to be discouraged about what we have missed out on but begin where the Lord has us today. As I have told you, I think this book is a must for newlyweds and everyone interested in the subject.
I love this post! We do the same thing. We share Valentines Day with our children and decorate etc. It's so much more fun. We reserve our anniversary to celebrate each other. Thank you for sharing!
Post a Comment