Can you believe how quickly time flies?!? I can't.
Today is a very special day in my family, and I'm having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that three years ago today, I became an Aunt. Unfortunately, with our move right before he was born, I have not been able to see my nephew as much as I would like. I am very thankful for technology (FaceTime, Facebook, and cell phones in particular) which have allowed me to keep up with him just a little.
It looks like I will be an Aunt again in November, so I'm hoping we can plan a trip to visit not only my new niece by my nephew as well. It's long-overdue for this Aunt to spoil her nephew (and the bonus... his mom and dad will get a little break to spend with their newest addition).
Happy birthday (not-so) little man! Your Aunt, Uncle, and Cousins wish you a very happy birthday! Lots of hugs and love being sent your way from Florida.
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Time to Celebrate
Yes, sir. It's time to celebrate! No, our roof isn't done :-( And no, it's not because I've changed jobs. It's because today, my husband's grandfather is turning....
97!!!
Happy birthday Gramps! We love you and wish we were there to celebrate with you (and for those of you who don't know... he will be reading this on his iPad so feel free to leave some love of your own).
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
An Inspiration
Everyone has someone they look up to. Someone who they respect for their skill (athletes), their knowledge (a teacher growing up), or their ability and willingness to help people in need.
Well, today I want to take time to honor someone (two someones actually) who inspire me. I've known them for about 15 years now, but each year that passes, I get to know a little more about their heart and passions.
They have a love for their family that is wonderful to behold. I know
for a fact that they pray for everyone in their family each day. They
pray for missionaries (who they've never met) on a regular basis
(probably daily as well). They participate in functions at their church
as much as their health and time allows. They are a bundle of love and
affection and are always on the go. In fact, I don't think I have a
single picture of the two of them together. Because they are always
doing something. And considering they are in their 90's that's pretty
amazing if you ask me.
That love extends to each other too.
Today is the 70th anniversary of my husband's grandparents. Not only are they a wonderful example of Godly people, they are a wonderful example of a Godly marriage.
We love you Gan and Gramps! Wish we could be there to help you celebrate.
Well, today I want to take time to honor someone (two someones actually) who inspire me. I've known them for about 15 years now, but each year that passes, I get to know a little more about their heart and passions.
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| Gan taking pics of my kids |
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| Gramps watching the festivities |
That love extends to each other too.
Today is the 70th anniversary of my husband's grandparents. Not only are they a wonderful example of Godly people, they are a wonderful example of a Godly marriage.
We love you Gan and Gramps! Wish we could be there to help you celebrate.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Maturity
As my regular readers know, my daughter recently went to the dentist and got her first filling. Something I didn't mention was that after her filling she was given an opportunity to go to the treasure chest and pick out anything she wanted. And what did she pick? A toy for her brother.
This just shows something I've known about my daughter for quite a while. My daughter is one of the most considerate, compassionate, kind, and caring children I know. She thinks of other's feelings more than most kids her age.
Especially considering that tomorrow she turns 7! Where has the time gone?!?
Money in our house has been tight since about this time last year. We are not the type of people who tell our kids all the details, but we think they have a right to know why we don't eat out as much as we used to, why we didn't renew our Busch Garden's passes, and why they aren't getting as many toys as they used to. So that means our kids know that there won't be many presents at the various holidays.
My daughter has the smallest bedroom in the house (probably close to half the size of her brother's room) and the only way to give her more space was to go up. So earlier today, we picked up a loft bed for her room that I found on Craig's List. As we were walking to our truck after picking up the bed, she grabs my hand and says in a very energetic voice, "This is the best birthday present EVER!"
And what did my daughter do after we got the bed put together tonight? After climbing in and testing the bed for herself, she climbed down and let her brother take a turn.
That girl, just melts my heart.
This just shows something I've known about my daughter for quite a while. My daughter is one of the most considerate, compassionate, kind, and caring children I know. She thinks of other's feelings more than most kids her age.
Especially considering that tomorrow she turns 7! Where has the time gone?!?
Money in our house has been tight since about this time last year. We are not the type of people who tell our kids all the details, but we think they have a right to know why we don't eat out as much as we used to, why we didn't renew our Busch Garden's passes, and why they aren't getting as many toys as they used to. So that means our kids know that there won't be many presents at the various holidays.
My daughter has the smallest bedroom in the house (probably close to half the size of her brother's room) and the only way to give her more space was to go up. So earlier today, we picked up a loft bed for her room that I found on Craig's List. As we were walking to our truck after picking up the bed, she grabs my hand and says in a very energetic voice, "This is the best birthday present EVER!"
And what did my daughter do after we got the bed put together tonight? After climbing in and testing the bed for herself, she climbed down and let her brother take a turn.
That girl, just melts my heart.
Happy 7th Birthday to my not-so-little girl!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Whirlwind of Emotions
Guilt
Anxiety
Peace
Stress
Joy
Love
Pride
These are all emotions I experienced yesterday because of my kids teeth. You see, yesterday both of my kids had their teeth cleaned for the first time in longer than I'd like to admit. Let's just say, this is the first time they've been to the dentist since we moved to Florida.
Part of the reason is because money has been tight. The main reason is because the last time they were at the dentist it didn't go well. They tried to get x-rays of my son and he gagged non-stop (no vomiting thankfully) and they weren't able to get anything worthwhile. My daughter did better, but only because I told them not to bother taking x-rays of her teeth.
So how did yesterday go? Better and worse all wrapped into one. My son's teeth got a clean bill of health. No cavities and they were even able to get x-rays. He didn't complain at all. They did recommend that we see an orthodontist because his teeth look like they will be crowded, but nothing that's particularly urgent.
My daughter did great getting her teeth cleaned and x-rays as well. Even with the cavity we knew she had. Unfortunately, I learned that my daughter's "perfectly straight teeth" are actually so tight that she has cavities between two teeth in 4 different places. We knew she was going to need one filling but we learned she's going to need more.
The one we knew about is the worst of them all and it looks like we caught it before it got to the nerve. Moments ago I found out that there was a cancellation that will mean she can be seen on Monday rather than 4 weeks from now (when she was originally scheduled for). Praise God! I'm so happy we have an even better chance of getting it dealt with before it gets to the nerve. Pray for us that Monday will go well. That we did catch it in time and that we both make it through witout any mental trauma.
It may have been a whirlwind of emotions for me, but thankfully, my kids seemed to be even keeled all day (and my daughter is looking forward to being able to eat pain-free again in the very near future). And I think it's safe to say we found a dentist (and team) we all like and trust.
Anxiety
Peace
Stress
Joy
Love
Pride
These are all emotions I experienced yesterday because of my kids teeth. You see, yesterday both of my kids had their teeth cleaned for the first time in longer than I'd like to admit. Let's just say, this is the first time they've been to the dentist since we moved to Florida.
Part of the reason is because money has been tight. The main reason is because the last time they were at the dentist it didn't go well. They tried to get x-rays of my son and he gagged non-stop (no vomiting thankfully) and they weren't able to get anything worthwhile. My daughter did better, but only because I told them not to bother taking x-rays of her teeth.
So how did yesterday go? Better and worse all wrapped into one. My son's teeth got a clean bill of health. No cavities and they were even able to get x-rays. He didn't complain at all. They did recommend that we see an orthodontist because his teeth look like they will be crowded, but nothing that's particularly urgent.
My daughter did great getting her teeth cleaned and x-rays as well. Even with the cavity we knew she had. Unfortunately, I learned that my daughter's "perfectly straight teeth" are actually so tight that she has cavities between two teeth in 4 different places. We knew she was going to need one filling but we learned she's going to need more.
The one we knew about is the worst of them all and it looks like we caught it before it got to the nerve. Moments ago I found out that there was a cancellation that will mean she can be seen on Monday rather than 4 weeks from now (when she was originally scheduled for). Praise God! I'm so happy we have an even better chance of getting it dealt with before it gets to the nerve. Pray for us that Monday will go well. That we did catch it in time and that we both make it through witout any mental trauma.
It may have been a whirlwind of emotions for me, but thankfully, my kids seemed to be even keeled all day (and my daughter is looking forward to being able to eat pain-free again in the very near future). And I think it's safe to say we found a dentist (and team) we all like and trust.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Love and Compassion Taught by a Child
With all that's been going on in Boston this week, it's impossible to hide things from my kids. Would I want to? No. Especially in light of what it has showed me about my children.
Earlier today I asked them, "What kind of person would do this?"
Their response: "I don't know."
My next question: "Do you think they believe in Jesus?"
Their response: "No."
Me: "Why not?"
Their response: "Because Jesus said not to hurt others. To love them."
Tonight, as I was putting my daughter to bed, we prayed like we always do, and one of the last things I prayed for was the safety of the police and that the suspect would be caught.
Then she tells me, "I hope they catch him and put in him prison instead of kill him, because then he can have a chance to know Jesus." I am so proud of her for saying that.
How many adults would say the same thing? Many want justice and not mercy. But I firmly believe Jesus would be proud of my child's reaction too.
Earlier today I asked them, "What kind of person would do this?"
Their response: "I don't know."
My next question: "Do you think they believe in Jesus?"
Their response: "No."
Me: "Why not?"
Their response: "Because Jesus said not to hurt others. To love them."
Tonight, as I was putting my daughter to bed, we prayed like we always do, and one of the last things I prayed for was the safety of the police and that the suspect would be caught.
Then she tells me, "I hope they catch him and put in him prison instead of kill him, because then he can have a chance to know Jesus." I am so proud of her for saying that.
How many adults would say the same thing? Many want justice and not mercy. But I firmly believe Jesus would be proud of my child's reaction too.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
So Proud... And Guilty
I am a working mom. Most of my work is done from home, but the nature of real estate means occasionally I need to show a house (or a few) or go to an inspection, walk-through, or closing. Two nights ago, I was contacted by a client who I knew was seriously looking, asking how soon we could see a property that had just become available. Because of my schedule and her work schedule we met at 5:45 yesterday. That is right around when my family normally eats.
And here is where the guilt comes in. My hubby had 5 hours of sleep the night before so he had gone to take a nap. I didn't want to bother him since he's been working hard on a project lately. My kids are very obedient and know what they are and are not allowed to do (they don't even eat candy they are given at church because they know they need to ask), so off I went leaving them with instructions on what they could do while I was gone.
The house I was going to see was 15 minutes from my house, so I figured I wasn't far away nor would it take long. I left at 5:30 after having my kids eat a snack, thinking I should be back by 6:30 to feed them (I was going to bring back pizza so no waiting for me to cook would be involved).
As if I didn't felt bad enough that I was going to make them wait till 6:30 to eat, my client saw the house and decided she wanted to put in an offer... NOW! So rather than go to my house, I went to my office to work up an offer.
And here is where the pride comes in. When I realized I was going to be late, I called the house (note: I have not given this number out to anyone. I don't think my hubby even knows the number. Not because I don't want him to, but what's the point really). The only other phone calls we get on this number are phone spam. I recently taught my 9 year old how to tell if I'm the one calling. I also programmed my cell phone number into the phone so he could call me if he needed.
Well, he picked up the phone right away (I was thinking I'd have to call a couple times back to back before he answered). I told him that I was going to be later than I though and that they should try to find something simple and small to eat to tide them over till I got home.
As I'm on my way home from the office, I realize that my son had called me, so I called him back real quick to see if I needed to go to the house rather than the pizza place first. He said he and his sister were hungry and wanted to know when I would be back. I told him I was planning on making 2 stops (pizza & gas - I was running on fumes).
He said that was ok. They understood that what I was doing was important for the family and that they could wait a little longer. Needless to say, the pizza was a hit (I didn't actually tell them where I was getting dinner from). The doughnuts I bought at the gas station as additional guilt appeasement didn't hurt either I'm sure.
Oh, and the offer I worked up....I should hear back on that tomorrow morning.
And here is where the guilt comes in. My hubby had 5 hours of sleep the night before so he had gone to take a nap. I didn't want to bother him since he's been working hard on a project lately. My kids are very obedient and know what they are and are not allowed to do (they don't even eat candy they are given at church because they know they need to ask), so off I went leaving them with instructions on what they could do while I was gone.
The house I was going to see was 15 minutes from my house, so I figured I wasn't far away nor would it take long. I left at 5:30 after having my kids eat a snack, thinking I should be back by 6:30 to feed them (I was going to bring back pizza so no waiting for me to cook would be involved).
As if I didn't felt bad enough that I was going to make them wait till 6:30 to eat, my client saw the house and decided she wanted to put in an offer... NOW! So rather than go to my house, I went to my office to work up an offer.
And here is where the pride comes in. When I realized I was going to be late, I called the house (note: I have not given this number out to anyone. I don't think my hubby even knows the number. Not because I don't want him to, but what's the point really). The only other phone calls we get on this number are phone spam. I recently taught my 9 year old how to tell if I'm the one calling. I also programmed my cell phone number into the phone so he could call me if he needed.
Well, he picked up the phone right away (I was thinking I'd have to call a couple times back to back before he answered). I told him that I was going to be later than I though and that they should try to find something simple and small to eat to tide them over till I got home.
As I'm on my way home from the office, I realize that my son had called me, so I called him back real quick to see if I needed to go to the house rather than the pizza place first. He said he and his sister were hungry and wanted to know when I would be back. I told him I was planning on making 2 stops (pizza & gas - I was running on fumes).
He said that was ok. They understood that what I was doing was important for the family and that they could wait a little longer. Needless to say, the pizza was a hit (I didn't actually tell them where I was getting dinner from). The doughnuts I bought at the gas station as additional guilt appeasement didn't hurt either I'm sure.
Oh, and the offer I worked up....I should hear back on that tomorrow morning.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Memory Lane
It's amazing how time passes differently for each generation. To my kids, things drag on for what seems like an eternity (so they say). For me, those same things pass too quickly. And from what I understand, the older you get, the faster things seem to pass. Something I'm not looking forward to honestly.
So today, rather than thinking about how quickly my future is going to pass before me, I'm going to reminisce and revel in the past. You see, today my best friend through junior high and high school is celebrating her birthday. It's been more years than I'd like to admit since I've seen her, but we still try to keep in touch as best we can considering we live 1000's of miles apart and both have families that keep us busy.
I remember walks in the woods talking about which boys we liked and who was driving us absolutely crazy (our siblings usually being near the top of the list). I remember snowball fights, sleep overs, and working together over the summers among many other things.
But most of all, I remember what a Godly young woman she was. And you know what, that hasn't changed. She is still young (compared to me certainly) and she lives out her faith every day. She truly is an inspiration.
Love you Deanna! I pray you have a wonderful day.
So today, rather than thinking about how quickly my future is going to pass before me, I'm going to reminisce and revel in the past. You see, today my best friend through junior high and high school is celebrating her birthday. It's been more years than I'd like to admit since I've seen her, but we still try to keep in touch as best we can considering we live 1000's of miles apart and both have families that keep us busy.
I remember walks in the woods talking about which boys we liked and who was driving us absolutely crazy (our siblings usually being near the top of the list). I remember snowball fights, sleep overs, and working together over the summers among many other things.
But most of all, I remember what a Godly young woman she was. And you know what, that hasn't changed. She is still young (compared to me certainly) and she lives out her faith every day. She truly is an inspiration.
Love you Deanna! I pray you have a wonderful day.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Feelin' The Love
Today has been a hectic, on-the-go, don't have time to stop kinda day for me. I work up at 6AM with a headache and didn't fall back asleep very easily (thankfully I did). Even better, was that my kids let me sleep in till 9. After that, things haven't stopped.
That said, I have had a couple really nice "surprises" today. This morning my son asked if he could make himself scrambled egg for breakfast. He's made pancakes a couple times and has done a great job so I figured why not. Not only did he make himself an egg, but he offered to make me one.
It. was. perfect.
Then when he realized I was going to be leaving for an afternoon meeting without having lunch, he walked up to me and handed me a snack pack of craisins so I could at least eat something in the car. He also got me a glass of ice water for in the car.
When I got home from said meeting, I was greeted by the smell of banana bread and a fridge door full of homemade mocha coffee drinks.
Now that I've taken a break for a few minutes to let you all in on the joy that has brightened my day, I need to get back to the list of work I still have to complete before I can go to bed tonight.
Here's to hoping you have all felt a little love today.
That said, I have had a couple really nice "surprises" today. This morning my son asked if he could make himself scrambled egg for breakfast. He's made pancakes a couple times and has done a great job so I figured why not. Not only did he make himself an egg, but he offered to make me one.
It. was. perfect.
Then when he realized I was going to be leaving for an afternoon meeting without having lunch, he walked up to me and handed me a snack pack of craisins so I could at least eat something in the car. He also got me a glass of ice water for in the car.
When I got home from said meeting, I was greeted by the smell of banana bread and a fridge door full of homemade mocha coffee drinks.
Now that I've taken a break for a few minutes to let you all in on the joy that has brightened my day, I need to get back to the list of work I still have to complete before I can go to bed tonight.
Here's to hoping you have all felt a little love today.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
A Plee From This Mother's Heart
I've been following a blog for a while now (An Inch of Gray). It came to my attention from another blog I'd been reading (Momastery). Both of the authors were from Northern Virginia, so in a strange way it was my way of keeping up with people from where I grew up even though I've never met either of the authors.
After following An Inch of Gray for a while, I discovered something about the author and her family. She had lost her 12 year old son Jack to a tragic accident. Yesterday, was the one year anniversary of that accident. Momastery had an outpouring of love for Jack's family on their Facebook page that was just a.ma.zing. It had me tearing up just seeing how much love complete strangers can show to others who are in pain.
Then late yesterday afternoon, a friend of mine from Florida posted a request on Facebook to pray for her 17 year old cousin who was in a terrible car accident yesterday. As of now, she is in a coma and is hooked up to various machines to help her breath. The doctors don't believe she is brain dead, but she is still unconscious and unresponsive so they are not sure of the damage.
Please pray for Sierra. Pray that she will be completely healed. Pray for her family as they deal with this tragedy. Pray for the friends who were in the vehicle with her and also got hurt as well as their families.
And I have one more request for all of you... Love on your children. Love them like you may not have tomorrow, because you never know what can happen. On that note, I'm going to go spend some quality time with my kids.
After following An Inch of Gray for a while, I discovered something about the author and her family. She had lost her 12 year old son Jack to a tragic accident. Yesterday, was the one year anniversary of that accident. Momastery had an outpouring of love for Jack's family on their Facebook page that was just a.ma.zing. It had me tearing up just seeing how much love complete strangers can show to others who are in pain.
Then late yesterday afternoon, a friend of mine from Florida posted a request on Facebook to pray for her 17 year old cousin who was in a terrible car accident yesterday. As of now, she is in a coma and is hooked up to various machines to help her breath. The doctors don't believe she is brain dead, but she is still unconscious and unresponsive so they are not sure of the damage.
Please pray for Sierra. Pray that she will be completely healed. Pray for her family as they deal with this tragedy. Pray for the friends who were in the vehicle with her and also got hurt as well as their families.
And I have one more request for all of you... Love on your children. Love them like you may not have tomorrow, because you never know what can happen. On that note, I'm going to go spend some quality time with my kids.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Priorities
Earlier this week, some people I know witnessed a horrific accident. They quickly jumped into action but in the end were not able to help the people involved in the accident. Afterwords, they said it was the worst thing they've ever experienced... being completely helpless as you watch and know that someone is or has died right in front of you. After speaking to the authorities, they all decided they were going to go out and "Enjoy Life."
That got me thinking. In light of the fact that life can be very short, what if anything would I do differently. What does "enjoying life" look like for me? For the most part, I have no regrets. I am not going to be one of those people who wishes I'd had time to visit a certain place. Rather, I would be the person to regret not doing something with or saying something to someone.
To that end, I want to make sure I make time for family (spouse, kids, parents, grandparents, siblings, etc). I want to make sure I make time for friends. I want to make sure they all know how much I care for and love them.
To my regular readers... thank you for consistently reading my blog. It shows me how much you care about me and my family. We love you too!
That got me thinking. In light of the fact that life can be very short, what if anything would I do differently. What does "enjoying life" look like for me? For the most part, I have no regrets. I am not going to be one of those people who wishes I'd had time to visit a certain place. Rather, I would be the person to regret not doing something with or saying something to someone.
To that end, I want to make sure I make time for family (spouse, kids, parents, grandparents, siblings, etc). I want to make sure I make time for friends. I want to make sure they all know how much I care for and love them.
To my regular readers... thank you for consistently reading my blog. It shows me how much you care about me and my family. We love you too!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Dreaming of Baby
My nephew that is. Today I went to a baby shower for my sister-in-law. I was able to surprise her too! Originally we were not going to be in the area, but we decided to postpone our departure from VA a couple days so I could go. As some of you know, I've been working on some knitting projects for my nephew and now that they have been given, I figured I would share pictures of them.
I'm not sure if the pictures show the detail well, but I tried sticking with a theme... hearts. I found a really cute pattern for a hat with hearts on it and then I decided to adjust the pattern a bit to make it smaller and then add it to the mittens and socks as well.
I don't know what it is, but I'm already attached to this little fella. I can't wait to meet him (and spoil him).
I'm not sure if the pictures show the detail well, but I tried sticking with a theme... hearts. I found a really cute pattern for a hat with hearts on it and then I decided to adjust the pattern a bit to make it smaller and then add it to the mittens and socks as well.
I don't know what it is, but I'm already attached to this little fella. I can't wait to meet him (and spoil him).
Friday, May 13, 2011
Going to See Jesus
My Grandmother has been sick for quite some time. Luckily, our travels to Florida had us only 2.5 hours away, so a couple weeks ago we took a day trip to see her. While there, she slept most of the time, but I'm very happy we went. You see those times when she was awake were good. She became conversational (not overly mind you), and she was definitely taking in everything around her. It just so happened that 2 of my 3 cousins had come the same day, so she was able to see 3 of her 5 grand-kids all in the same place (for the first time in many years). Shortly after that trip my grandmother started sleeping more and being awake less, so I'm glad we went when we did.
Since that trip, I've been thinking about what I remember most about my grandmother. It would probably have to be the time spent together when she would tell me stories and poems she had learned when she was in grade school. I remember that even at the age of 90 she could recite those poems. (Why did I not get that ability?) I also remember a portrait she painted of me from a picture taken outside her home. It used to sit over the piano at my parent's house (the painting is still there but the piano is not). I hope that once we are settled somewhere, that I can get that painting. She was quite the artist and I really wish I'd been able to spend more time with her to learn art and sewing from her.
I love you Grandma! I am happy that you are no longer in pain and that you are now in the arms of Jesus. You'll be missed.
Since that trip, I've been thinking about what I remember most about my grandmother. It would probably have to be the time spent together when she would tell me stories and poems she had learned when she was in grade school. I remember that even at the age of 90 she could recite those poems. (Why did I not get that ability?) I also remember a portrait she painted of me from a picture taken outside her home. It used to sit over the piano at my parent's house (the painting is still there but the piano is not). I hope that once we are settled somewhere, that I can get that painting. She was quite the artist and I really wish I'd been able to spend more time with her to learn art and sewing from her.
I love you Grandma! I am happy that you are no longer in pain and that you are now in the arms of Jesus. You'll be missed.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Never Forgotten... Always Loved
Today is a bitter sweet day for me. With the exception of a few months where I lived in New York for a summer job (where I meet my hubby) and again for 3 months when I lived in Ohio last summer, I have lived the last 27 years of my life in Virginia. I have lived in multiple houses, but all within about a 50 mile radius.
Today, all of that is changing. We are officially moving out of the area. We are still not sure where we will ultimately settle down; at this point we're thinking it could be Florida, Texas, or Australia.
This is exciting because we are one step closer to having our own place again. The time of living in limbo is drawing to a close. It's also an opportunity to find a new house and decorate it. We sold or gave away all of our household furnishings last year, so I get to start from scratch (and let me tell you my tastes have changed a lot since my wedding registry). I will also be able to make new friends, and depending on where we move, get reacquainted with ones I haven't seen in years.
On the flip side, I will be leaving behind friends I've made over the years as well as most of our immediate family. I remember when I graduated from high school a certain song was my mantra. For all my friends and family that I'm "leaving behind" I dedicate this to you.
Friends by Deborah D. & Michael W. Smith
Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you
Can't believe the hopes He's granted
Means a chapter in your life is through
But we'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long to live as friends.
With the faith and love God's given
Springing from the hope we know
We will pray the joy you'll live in
Is the strength that now you show
But we'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long to live as friends.
Today, all of that is changing. We are officially moving out of the area. We are still not sure where we will ultimately settle down; at this point we're thinking it could be Florida, Texas, or Australia.
This is exciting because we are one step closer to having our own place again. The time of living in limbo is drawing to a close. It's also an opportunity to find a new house and decorate it. We sold or gave away all of our household furnishings last year, so I get to start from scratch (and let me tell you my tastes have changed a lot since my wedding registry). I will also be able to make new friends, and depending on where we move, get reacquainted with ones I haven't seen in years.
On the flip side, I will be leaving behind friends I've made over the years as well as most of our immediate family. I remember when I graduated from high school a certain song was my mantra. For all my friends and family that I'm "leaving behind" I dedicate this to you.
Friends by Deborah D. & Michael W. Smith
Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you
Can't believe the hopes He's granted
Means a chapter in your life is through
But we'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long to live as friends.
With the faith and love God's given
Springing from the hope we know
We will pray the joy you'll live in
Is the strength that now you show
But we'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long to live as friends.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Time flies
Today is my son's 7th birthday. It's hard to believe that 7 years ago today our lives changed for ever! Every year on his birthday I relive the day like it was yesterday. What memories!
That day is also memorable to my husband and me because it was also the birth of his business. While I was in labor, he had a business meeting that set in motion a business that has allowed my husband to work from home for the last 7 years (Don't worry, I told him to go. I WANTED him to go. You see, with every contraction he gave me this look and after a while it got on my last nerve!). Seven years later, the company is in the process of closing, but it has been a wonderful opportunity for me to see first hand just the kind of man he is. I believe it's also allowed him to be around in a way that many father's never have the opportunity.
As enjoyable as having my husband home for the last 7 years has been, the last 7 years with my son have been spectacular! It has been such a wonderful experience to see him grow and learn (and teach me a few things as well). And more recently to be his "teacher" has magnified that.
I'm excited to see what happens over the next 7 years, but I certainly don't want to rush them.
That day is also memorable to my husband and me because it was also the birth of his business. While I was in labor, he had a business meeting that set in motion a business that has allowed my husband to work from home for the last 7 years (Don't worry, I told him to go. I WANTED him to go. You see, with every contraction he gave me this look and after a while it got on my last nerve!). Seven years later, the company is in the process of closing, but it has been a wonderful opportunity for me to see first hand just the kind of man he is. I believe it's also allowed him to be around in a way that many father's never have the opportunity.
As enjoyable as having my husband home for the last 7 years has been, the last 7 years with my son have been spectacular! It has been such a wonderful experience to see him grow and learn (and teach me a few things as well). And more recently to be his "teacher" has magnified that.
I'm excited to see what happens over the next 7 years, but I certainly don't want to rush them.
Friday, February 4, 2011
A tribute to Mom!
Today is my birthday. Yes, I admitted it. In fact, I am willing to shout it from the mountain tops! Why? Not because I am OK with being a year older (I am though), but because I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to my mom.
You see, some years ago I realized that birthday's are celebrated all wrong. Afterall, I didn't really DO anything on my birthday. My mom was the one who did all the work (ok, maybe the doctors and nurses helped a bit), but all I did was show up. That's why for the last few years, I have given my mother a gift on my birthday. This year, she is in Florida visiting with her mom, but she will be back in a few days (Being that she will probably read this I am not going to say what I'm giving her when she returns).
What I do want to share with you is what my mom has taught me over the last ___ years (I'm ok with being older but that doesn't mean I have to tell you all how old I am). My mom has been a wonderful example of kindness; she is always willing to help others. She is also a very caring person; she has always shown genuine concern for others even if she doesn't know them well or at all. And over the last few years she has showed me what tenacity is all about.
So, on this my birthday, I want to tell my mom that I love her and appreciate all she's done for me and all I've been able to learn from her!
You see, some years ago I realized that birthday's are celebrated all wrong. Afterall, I didn't really DO anything on my birthday. My mom was the one who did all the work (ok, maybe the doctors and nurses helped a bit), but all I did was show up. That's why for the last few years, I have given my mother a gift on my birthday. This year, she is in Florida visiting with her mom, but she will be back in a few days (Being that she will probably read this I am not going to say what I'm giving her when she returns).
What I do want to share with you is what my mom has taught me over the last ___ years (I'm ok with being older but that doesn't mean I have to tell you all how old I am). My mom has been a wonderful example of kindness; she is always willing to help others. She is also a very caring person; she has always shown genuine concern for others even if she doesn't know them well or at all. And over the last few years she has showed me what tenacity is all about.
So, on this my birthday, I want to tell my mom that I love her and appreciate all she's done for me and all I've been able to learn from her!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Not Much to Open
As we approach Christmas this year I've been trying to focus on the real meaning of Christmas with my kids. We have never celebrated Santa Clause (we're evil I know). That said, we have told our kids that there was a man named Nicolas years and years ago (I just found out how long ago - I had no idea he lived that long ago) who was known for leaving gifts for the underprivileged.
I am happy to say that when asked, both of my children now respond that Christmas is Jesus' birthday. It warms my heart every time when they tell me why that is so special. They now understand that we give gifts as a symbol of the ultimate gift we were given by Jesus coming to earth in the form of a baby and then 30 or so years later dying on the cross.
This year I have also been reflecting on how our current living situation has made it so that gifts this year for our kids are more in line with things to do (trips to fun places) and not things to play with. I have felt a bit guilty about it to be honest until I just realized as I was writing this, that Jesus was given 3 gifts from the wisemen.
Think about kids in this generation being given only 3 gifts. There would be a revolt! I think this year we are going to focus on the fact that the "stuff" doesn't matter. Does that mean that my kids will be receiving no "stuff"? No. It means that my kids are going to learn that we give them "stuff" because we love them (not because they deserve it as kids are told with Santa Clause), but we also don't go overboard... because we love them.
I am happy to say that when asked, both of my children now respond that Christmas is Jesus' birthday. It warms my heart every time when they tell me why that is so special. They now understand that we give gifts as a symbol of the ultimate gift we were given by Jesus coming to earth in the form of a baby and then 30 or so years later dying on the cross.
This year I have also been reflecting on how our current living situation has made it so that gifts this year for our kids are more in line with things to do (trips to fun places) and not things to play with. I have felt a bit guilty about it to be honest until I just realized as I was writing this, that Jesus was given 3 gifts from the wisemen.
Think about kids in this generation being given only 3 gifts. There would be a revolt! I think this year we are going to focus on the fact that the "stuff" doesn't matter. Does that mean that my kids will be receiving no "stuff"? No. It means that my kids are going to learn that we give them "stuff" because we love them (not because they deserve it as kids are told with Santa Clause), but we also don't go overboard... because we love them.
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