"Firsts"

Today I was watching my one year old son enjoying his "first " thunderstorm and it got me thinking....
How many "firsts" can we actually experience in a lifetime?? As a parent of 7 children I have the priveledge of 7 "first" steps, 7 "first" teeth, 7 "first" thunderstorms, 7 "first" snow falls,7 "first" crushes, 7 "first" dates, 7 "first" cars and 7 "first" own places. It also has me re-experience 7 "first tears,7 "first" falls, 7 "first boo boos, 7 "first" breakups, 7 "first" tantrams and 7 "first" fights. Even when the "firsts" are difficult and I wish I could keep my children from it I am glad I am able to be there to soften the blow. Each time I experience these "firsts" along with and through the eyes and heart of my children it gives me great joy and a memory forever ingrained in my mind. What a rich and full life I experience all due these wonderful people that call me Mom.