Purple Feathers

I am so blessed to have two of the most funny, curious, sweet, impulsive, 
imaginative, busy, and adorable kids ever. Yes, I know that most parents feel 
that way and should, but lately, I have gained an appreciation for their unique 
personalities in a way I hadn't before. Both are extremely strong willed, 
definitely sure of what he or she likes, wants, or disapproves of, but they each 
are their own little person with their own dreams and hopes. They each have a 
beautiful imagination, of which, I sometimes am able to steal a glimpse. I love 
seeing into their, not little, but huge imaginations, where anything is possible, 
where the void of earwax on a q-tip is because a "monster licked it out." Being 
with my little crew and trying to see the world as they do gives me, what I hope,
a unique perspective in writing for children. I love penning, or typing, out a story 
that was started as a conversation between my children and myself. 


In my daughter's preschool class, she and the other little girls love picking 
purple feathers off a class dress up boa and hiding them in their pockets until 
they get home. I then find a trail of purple feathers from time to time, evidence 
that my daughter has been there. I used to get annoyed at the feathers, having 
to pick them up from random places in the house and finding them soaked in 
the washing machine, while transferring a load from the washer to the dryer. 
Earlier this week, I was tidying up in my room, when I looked down and found 
a little pile of purple feathers. Instead of sighing, I giggled to myself. Holding 
them affectionately, I treasured what they represented - the whimsy of a sweet 
little girl, innocent and lovely. How much longer would she remain this way, 
concerned only with princesses, butterflies, tutus and purple feathers? 


How I need to cherish every moment, every smile and every seemingly 
silly question. I am so thankful for this time of endless hugs and kisses,
beaming smiles, furrowed brows of disapproval, unintentional food fights at the 
dinner table and baths turned magic by bubbles, even if there seems to be no 
end to the stinky diapers or more than occasional tantrums. I am so blessed for
purple feathers leaving me a reminder of what God has given me.