The Ring Family

Before you were conceived I wanted you

Before you were born I loved you

Before you were here an hour I would die for you

This is the miracle of life.

I was recently asked about how many children I want... If I was content with Will, Riley, and Emery. I honestly wasn't sure how to respond. Of course I was quick to respond that Blake and I are completely content with our 3 precious children. I wish that I had also said that when we reach a point that we are ready for another child(there will be a brother for Will one day) it doesn't mean that we are not content.

Bitter are the tears of a child: Sweeten them.

Deep are the thoughts of a child: Quit them.

Sharp is th grief of a child: Take it from him.

Soft is th heart of a child: Do not harden it.

To be honest, each time we have thought about adding another child, I have been at a loss when thinking about how we could possibly have enough love to love another child equally.

When I saw Will's face for the first time I was in such awe that I could not cry. I could not speak. I could not move. And all from a simple picture. I had no idea that he would have an adorable little voice that squeaks at times. I could not comprehend how much he would adore his daddy or both papa's. I would never have guessed how smart he is - how quickly he learns. I would never have understood at that time the tenderness and compassion his heart is capable of... I wish I was like him in that area!

During those first few sleep deprived months of Riley's life I did not appreciate that stubborn streak. Now I am thankful to know she will stand her ground as she grows older. And passion - My daughter has such passion for life. For food. For fun. For those she loves. She is talking. Nonstop. With a mom and dad like us I guess a chatterbox is inevitable.

Emery is only 14 weeks old, but I can already imagine what she will be like in a few years. She is laid back and calm. She smiles easily. Emery is often content to just sit and watch her brother and sister play. And when someone talks to her she lights up! I think that her love language will be time...

These are my children. These precious faces are my life.

Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous. It is to decide to forever have your heart go walking around outside of your body.

These are the first initial thoughts that flood my mind in only the first few seconds my mind wanders to them. I have been content with each one of them. I would be content if Will was our first and only child. I am content if our family of five never grows again. I will be content when(Lord willing) we adopt another son one day. These children are not just numbers. These faces are not just faces. Each is an individual gift from the Lord. Every year that we can add a child is a blessing(and no that is not an announcement).

So thankful for another year to love William Thomas, Riley Lynn, and Emery Ann...