the HARRIS unit: Look Who's ONE

Well, it was bound to happen and it did! Our beauty, Norine Ann, is now ONE. She is such a doll and has brought each member of our family joy.

Before little Nora came into the world I was counseled in a priesthood blessing to SHARE her. If you know me, you know that I LOVE babies. In high school I would sometimes rather babysit then go out. I just loved cuddling the little ones.

When my oldest was born he cried. Let me repeat that: he CRIED. I remember thinking, is this how babies really are??? Yes, babies do cry but he was colic and a very difficult baby. With each new child I worried, a bit, if she or he would be colic.

The Lord sure blessed me to only experience one colic baby. Of course, each child has done a fair amount of crying, but not quite like my sweet first born.

Thus, my instruction to SHARE little Norine. I have tried to follow that counsel. As a result, she has quite the fan club of friends even beyond the family circle. I really feel the love of so many towards Norine. I would also hope in return she has brought joy to those special people who adore her.

Norine's first year has been bitter sweet. With each milestone I have a tinge of sadness that squeezes my heart. I just want to cherish every moment with her. Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way, but I wish time would slow down a touch!!!

The first two years of a child's life are the most rapid in growth. The change is nothing short of a divine miracle. Watching her grow deepens my understanding of our Father's love for us.

I wonder sometimes if He feels a tinge of pain pulling His heart strings as we grow into adults. Certainly HE is aware of our growth and constant changes.

For me, I still feel like I am a young girl, and so immature in so many ways. Yet, somehow I have the responsibility of caring for, teaching, loving, comforting, and shepherding my little ones. There is not a day I do not feel inadequate, small, or just right lonely in this life of motherhood. I feel my mistakes far out weigh any tiny stride on the pathway of good mothering.

But, somehow knowing my Father in Heaven loves me and loves my children I find JOY in every day I face. Sure, the making of a good mother is a life long process and the numberless things I do wrong replay over and over again, but I am plodding along.

I love being a mother. The challenges motherhood puts to head are difficult. Life swirls around, and whips the wind in my face. But many a day though the sun may be hiding there is boundless sunshine found in the deep of my children's eyes.