So much has happened. I'll give you a super brief rundown:
girls night with makeovers, nails, and late night viewings of Modern Family after Jessi fell asleep- happens everytime. Field trip to Auntie Annie's Pretzels, we all made and ate our own pretzel the kids had a blast. 2nd chance animals rescue to tour and play with puppies. The kids were sure the black lab Jade needed to come home with us. Though I LOVE labs, I highly disagreed (for now!). Homework, alka seltzer rockets, painting t-shirts, and cakes and goodies from so many people. 6 weeks of soccer ending with a freezing cold (on May 14th- what?!) community picnic in the park. Was a huge hit with the kids- and even caused some to hit but thats a story for another day. Completed English classes with my adults who I will miss dearly. Had my first piano recital with my students who did an awesome job!! Ran another 5K and improved my time. Celebrated my golden birthday with the best friends EVER was surprised, loved and celebrated for a whole week. I am so blessed. The list could probably go on and on. We have been on the move (as if I would have it any other way!)
However, as I was going through pictures to share I found this one:
and coudln't help but to stop and smile. I'm not even sure who took it and for some you may be thinking it's a bit odd. But, for me, I need to tatoo it to my foreheard, or I suppose my heart will do for now. I get so caught up in the busyness sometimes. I'm constantly walking circles in my house trying to keep kids in line, or wiping down the counter, or folding the blanket for the 6th time on the back of the couch. I'm writing lists, checking off lists, and squeezing out every minute of every day. But, I have to remember to stop sometimes and treasure the moments with these dear kids that have become such a constant part of my life. I need to let the garbage overflow, and not worry about the loud noises from the basement (ok, maybe thats a bit too far), but sit and really listen to his stories which will fascinate the life out of you and engage in what is important to him in that moment. Sometimes this will be the only time he's really listened to in this day, the only moment will he'll feel as important as he really is and I need to remember to embrace it as often as possible. Sometimes by 6 o clock I'm ready to rip my hair out or sometimes already have, but I just need to remember these precious moments with 'my kids' and revel in the privelege and blessing I have to work with them. After losing my precious grandmother a few weeks ago my grandpa says probably almost everytime I visit him, "We all can learn a lesson from this, even me. We just never know what will happen, what tomorrow will bring". And as I sit and hold back the tears or at least hope he can't see them with his limited vision suddenly my lists go out the window and my beeping phone seems irrelevant and I embrace the precious moments with him as he now learns to live life without his beloved.
However, if Joe Joe keeps farting while I sit next to him, I may need to listen from a distance. :)
love well xoxo, jm
