Watching a grandchild provides endless life lessons.
I realized this last Saturday when I grabbed the camera to capture Kyla’s first boat ride on Hamilton Lake. (By the way she doesn’t look too happy in these photos and really wanted a nap instead of a strange bumpy trip on water. She did enjoy the second boat ride later in the day with giggles and smiles.)

Why have we as adults forgotten to honor firsts in our lives? I don’t like to think that we have no more firsts after we reach a certain age. I think I quit noticing and don’t take the time to recognizing new onsets in my life.
I believe in life long learning – so the first time you read a new word, pondered a new idea, or learn a new skill should be celebrated.
How about the first time you accomplished a dream? Revel in the feeling of accomplishment.
Try a new food or traveled to a new place lately? Pause to honor that blessing.
I also think there are many “firsts” around us waiting to be discovered -the first robin of spring or the first dip in the ocean on the first day of vacation.
How about everyday firsts?
Last Sunday I experimented with a first. I decided to celebrate the first non-family member I met entering into church and hold that person up in prayer that day and the rest of the week. I saw Martha in the kitchen as soon as I came into the building. She even sat right in front of me during worship, so I had no excuse not to remember to pray for my selected “first” of the day. Each day this week I smiled as I held her up into the presence of God in my prayers.
I like this way of celebrating a first in my life and plan to keep my eyes open for more moments to capture, honor, and hold as precious debuts. Celebrating either a child’s or an adult’s “first” makes me feel more alive.
How about you? Any firsts you want to celebrate?
Oh, so many firsts for me this year. But I like your idea of celebrating the first person you see — praying for them, blessing them. Neat, Jeanie!
Aww! the lil one is so adorable ! Great Blog!
That little girlie is a doll baby! I love seeing the world again through childrens eyes. Your first at church is a lovely action. I want to celebrate a book published. Now that would really be a first! 🙂