At church I work with the 3 year old class (Sunbeams) with another woman. We trade off teaching the lesson and both marshal the kids. This is my third year teaching this class and every year I always have one that steals my heart. (I said it...I have favorites!) This year is no different and I seem to have a pattern. I love the troublemakers! Not the ones that are deliberately mean but just the ones that run, are crazy, and have a hard time listening because more often then not they are the ones that once you catch them will snuggle up and give you a big hug. How can you not love that!
One Sunday I had Nicole on my lap and she was telling me about her plans for the afternoon, she was going to her grandmas house. I told her that sounded like fun and asked if I could come. She looked at me, thought it over and said yes and that they could pick me up at my house. I could even sit in the front seat! This conversation started a friendship.
After primary was over she ran to ask her mom. It turns out that I couldn't come but Leah told her I could come over some other time. I got a hold of Leah that week and asked if I could take Nicole on a play date. We scheduled it for a Thursday. I made some phone calls and found out the Library had a story time for 3 year olds on Thursday. I met the two of them there and Nicole and I started our day together.
We went for story time, then we ate snack out in front of the library while running around like maniacs. We then went back in to read some books and play on the computer. I took her out for lunch and then we rode the bus home. We had such a fun day!
Our next play date happened when her older sister went for swimming lessons and Leah asked if I wouldn't mind watching Nicole. The hour went by so fast and she was completely fascinated by Remy and asked me a lot of questions about him.
This Sunday Nicole mentioned that she was hungry and I told her I bet her mom would make her some lunch when she got home. She thought about it for a moment and asked if I wanted to come over. She said that her mom could make us lunch, I could play with her dolls, and we could color in her coloring book. I told Leah after church and apparently she really did ask if I could come over. So another play date has been put in the works.
I know she probably won't ever remember that her sunbeam teacher thought she was one of the cutest little girls and enjoyed spending time with her but maybe just maybe she'll take something away from our time together. I have to admit I do have my selfish reasons... it's nice to have a kid want to sit on your lap at church.
Thank you Chelsea! I loved your post. I'm so glad you get some enjoyment, laughs and snuggles out of Nicole. She really is a great little girl, she just has alot of ... ummm... energy!
ReplyDeleteI hope she remembers how amazing her Sunbeam teacher is cause I always will!
You, my darling daughter, are going to be a great mom someday. I love that you manage to be so grown up and maintain your child-like wonder. "Of such is the kingdom of God." I just love you.
ReplyDeleteLeah: I am so glad you liked the post! Thank you for sharing your daughter with me.
ReplyDeleteMom: Thank you. You did a pretty great job, if I do say so myself.
Children will never forget adults who looked them in the eye, spoke kindly to them, and wanted to hang out with them. I think in our busy world it is difficult for us to remember to take the time to "be" with children. Good for you Chelsea, for taking the time.
ReplyDeleteHope you don't mine me creeping! Chelsea, I agree 100% with everyone's comments. You did (and do) such a great job :)
ReplyDeleteSue: Thank you for your kind words. I agree that often we get too busy to really just enjoy children.
ReplyDeleteRachel: I don't mind t all! I am a follower/comment junkie! AND thank you for thinking I'm doing a good job :D although I am missing our on your lessons and I hear they are wonderful.