by Christina Dennis
I have to argue that three-year-old toddlers are more of a challenge to parent than two-year-olds. "The Terrible Threes" - it has a ring to it, no? While I love my children more than words can express, today was one of those days where my toddler was more than a handful and I felt myself spiraling downward near the end of the day.
Last week, I designed myself some artwork to hang on a wall in our home based on these verses from the Bible:
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
I admit that today was a day where I felt I did not share some of these in my home, but it is these difficult days that remind me that I need to rely on God's Spirit to parent my girls with these qualities. Tonight, I am thankful for God's strength and His grace. I am thankful for a loving support system of family and friends that encourage me as a mother.
I am sharing this printable artwork with you with the hope that it will encourage you too!
This free PDF download is a 5 x7 piece of artwork. You can download it here: The DIY Mommy Fruits of the Spirit Printable
Christina Dennis is the creator and designer behind Golly Gee Baby, a collection of unique and colourful baby clothing and accessories that are ethically manufactured.
Maggie
Love this! I just told a friend, whoever said "terrible twos" must not have had a three year old!
Christina
Thank you, Maggie! I am so glad I'm not alone in thinking this. 🙂
Claire Vericker
Then, there are the frightful fours! The good thing seems to be, the child only chooses to act on one of these phases. Then there is one year , 7, 8, or 9. After that, it,s the very difficult 12, 13, 14, or 15th year. Boys or girls, cry and don't know why, act out, be disrespectful, extra hard-headed, etc. in our house, I gave them free reign for6 months. No arguments, within reason from me. Then, the child I loved for infinity, came back. Growing pains done! I've been assured they have sowed most of their oats, they should be good responsible adults. He oldest is 44 and it seems to have worked! That's my happy thought for today.
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Michelle
Love it Christina! I think anyone with kids could use a reminder like this now and then 🙂
Christina
Thank you, Michelle!
Leslie from Onesie Twosie
Thank you so much for sharing this!
Christina Dennis
You're so welcome, Leslie!