With Josh gone for the past week and a half, things have been a little nuts around here. One thing that always comes to my mind during these times is that I am so grateful that I am not a single mother. It is not easy to work full time nights and care for two little ones....often on less than enough sleep. The more sleep deprived I become, the less patience I have and, it seems, the more ornery the kiddos become. God has been teaching me to slow down, be still, and not be so concerned about the unimportant things. A good lesson to learn! It gives me so much respect for those moms and dads who go it alone but still raise children who are passionate about God, feel that their home is stable, and are productive members of society. I also have been so grateful for the amazing parents and friends that I have. They have made meals, watched the girls for extended periods of time and during strange hours, and just encouraged me. What would I have done without them? It reminds me to be sure to reach out to others and help them in their struggles too. I am learning to accept gratefully offers of help. You know, I feel so blessed when I can help others, who am I to deny them that enjoyment? THANKS to you all who are there for me. Nevaeh has been lots of fun lately. So observant. When in the car recently, this is the conversation I have been engaged in: Nev: "Mommy?!" Me: What Nev? Nev: (looking over at her sister): Ellie happy! Me: Yep, she sure is. Nev: Mommy?! Me: Yeah Nev? Nev: Yebby happy! Me: Oh, I am so glad that you are happy. Nev: Mommy!? Me: What do you need Nev? Nev: Mommy happy!!! (Giggle, giggle) Me: Yeah, babe, I really am happy. (and how couldn't I be after all of that?) In the new job front: I will be finished with orientation Monday. I will then be a full-fledged Mother/Baby nurse. It is so different from anything I have done before. I really enjoy the education, the infants, and the staff. It is sad though, even in this place of great happiness, there are so many problems and struggles too. My heart aches for the babies born into situations that they did not choose and would not have chosen if they could. I pray that each of them finds someone to love them and bring out the potential that God has placed in them. Mothers Day is coming again along with my mom's birthday. I have somehting neat in the works for her. I hope that she appreciates it. I certainly appreciate her. She is a special lady. A special blessing to all you moms out there (both physical and spiritual). The responsibility is heavy, but the joys lighten the load. May you ll get a little rest today and a smile or a hug from your kiddos. | 
