The two sides of this coin

Back in the days when all my people were little, I was often home all day, days in a row sometimes even until the week-end.  That had its own special challenges and rewards.

Over the last number of years, as our children, particularly the older ones have been involved in various activities the driving has increased.   Last summer we started doing some calculations of kilometres, and analyzing the gas consumption particularly of our large passenger van.

In the fall, Eric came upon a deal that we couldn't pass up on a small Toyota to become our "run around" car.   

There are many times when there have been only one or two children needing to go to an appointment or some other activity at church.

This has been particularly true of our oldest Jacob.  In fact as I am typing, this post will need to be saved for later because in a few moments I need to leave and bring him to work!

Jacob has been blessed with a job he enjoys at the public library.  He has been there nearly two years where he has 2-3 shifts per week and more during the holiday periods.   For roughly half of these shifts he works in Beamsville (exactly 15 minute drive one way).

And so.......I drive.  And drive.  And drive.

Now the days when I do not need to drive anywhere are few and far between.

I often heard mothers bemoaning being the "taxi mom."   I have often heard of mothers expressing glee when their child gets their full license and can drive places on their own.

I will admit to the times when I've not been thrilled to drop what I'm doing to bring someone somewhere.  Or the times when I've just wanted to curl up with a book one evening (in my PJs!), but couldn't because the car needed to go out that one more time.

I have even planned some summer activities around the fact that Jacob can get his full license at the end of July.

BUT.  BUT.  BUT.

My heart is a bit sad to think about it.  

I have told Eric a number of times that I feel sort of sad for him because much of the driving happens while he is at work, particularly with Jacob.

Why?

I have come to treasure these moments.  I have come to appreciate that all my children don't mind when the music gets turned down, and I start asking them questions.   

I have come to look forward to these times when the person sitting in the front with me cannot go anywhere and needs to use their minds as they are asked questions that require more then "yes" or "no."

I have delighted in learning about my son's job.   I have been thrilled to hear about (just this week) a huge discussion that he had with adult staff about certain methods used in re-shelving and how his opinion was valued.

I have marveled at how I see God working in their lives even in the mundane talks about life and the discussions about deeper issues.

I have enjoyed being in the passenger seat, teaching and guiding Jacob through the roads while he sits behind the steering wheel.   It has been a joy to watch him grow even in this.

I believe this driving "stage" has strengthened my relationships with my children.  Particularly Jacob.  I've gotten to know him more.  I anticipate the same with the future "learning" Valk drivers.   I look forward to it.  A lot.

So yes.  
Come the end of July.....
I think I'll be a little sad.
It is all new and exciting....as these entrusted blessings grow, learn and spread their wings.

There are two sides of this "taxi mom" stage.....and I never anticipated this sweet and treasured "2nd side."