{I have been thinking about love a lot lately. Valentines Day was a crucial time to really look at how I feel love and give love. I am preparing to give a presentation to my Mothers of Preschoolers group later this week about the 5 love languages for kids. So here are some of my ramblings.}

Love comes so easily for children

Today Ryan told me, “I love you because you let me make chocolate chip cookies with you.” His current primary love language is quality time. Just the mere suggestion of doing something with him brings him great joy. A close second…acts of service. So, getting to measure and bake next to me is a great way to fill his love tank.

Love starts when we choose it, so start loving today!

I took 2 days to really love my firstborn. Not exactly a comment to write in the baby-book, eh?

Sure, I “loved” him from the moment I knew he was being formed in my body.

But, my real deep-down, I know you are mine, I will die for you kind of love came 2 days after he was born. His little eyes opened and stared directly into mine…I knew I was going to be forever changed.

Right after my new found maternal instinct full of love and fear kicked in, I did what any “sane” new mommy would do, I asked the Hospital nurse (the same one that had been helping me for 2 days) to flip her name tag over so I could see her i.d. badge before taking my baby back to the nursery.

Plant Love and watch it grow

My love for my son continued to unfold in many ways over the years. As kids usually do, he crept up into the hearts of many other people too.

I found some old photos to illustrate some of the ways he has shown love to everyone during those lovable but taxing years of 18 months-3 years old (about).

Words of Appreciation

My Daddy is the best computer fixer! Can I help? Can I fix with you? Can I? Can I? Wow, you're so smart!

Physical Touch

Grammy Lu adoring Ry as he burps and comforts Molly.

Acts of Service

Ry and Dad cleaning the floor with vacuums.

Gifts

Giving has always come very naturally for Ryan. As an older toddler he always made sure everyone in the room, including stuffed animals, had a snack or toy.

Quality Time

Ry showing Papa the wonders of the world. No doubt, Ry pointed out a jet stream or airplane.

More thoughts about how to show love to kids, later this week!

Hope your day is full of love. Giving or receiving….