Monday, November 29, 2010

The number "4"

Oh Dylan, I cannot believe that you are going to be FOUR years old tomorrow. It seems like just yesterday I was having a nervous breakdown in our Las Vegas house waiting for your arrival. You have come so far in just this short amount of time. This year has been a tough one for our entire family, but I think it's been especially tough on you. But, I must say, that you have shown more resilience than anyone (especially at your age) I know. You are still the happy go lucky kid I have grown to love more than words can describe. You are wise beyond your years and it has taught me to never underestimate what you are capable of.

Some of your favorite things still crack me up. I thought for sure you would be over Little Einsteins by now, but we are going on 3 years and you are just as attached to your little Rockets as you ever have been. I'm pretty sure you have every single episode memorized. Lucky for me, you have added a few new shows to your repertoire. Namely Sesame Street, SuperWhy, and Curious George. You are loving your Leapster2 and I'm shocked at how quickly you are able to master the games. You can teach your Grandma and Great Gram a thing or two about using the computer, too. Your blue and white blanket that Angela made is still attached to your hand. I'm not sure what I'll do when it bites the dust. I may just have to retain a scrap piece to give you on your wedding day. You love puzzles, trucks, and basically just being a boy. You are doing really well in preschool and look forward to going and learning new things. I love hearing you sing the songs you learn at school and in Primary.

I can't tell you how proud I am of what a great big brother you are to Lena. Watching you make her smile melts my heart. I know that you are someone we will all be able to depend on throughout your life.

Being a Mom is the greatest gift I've ever been given. Thank you for giving it to me. Thank you for coming to our Family. Your Dad and I love you more than you'll ever know. We both feel like time has been going way too fast. You are a delight to have in our home.

Here's to hoping that being 4 is even more awesome than the previous years. (we'll try not to make you move again;)) Love you lil guy!

Monday, November 22, 2010

My top 10

The top 10 things I'm thankful for in 2010 are:

10. my new, cute, cream-colored, hip-length pea coat
9. finally coming close to my natural hair color
8. being able to experience an extra long Fall
7. friends that treat me like family
6. the opportunity to meet some wonderful people, some who will be lifelong friends
5. losing all the baby weight in 6 months
4. preschool
3. my mom for helping me move not once, but twice
2. my husband and his mini
1. my health and happy Lena Kathleen

What are YOU thankful for this year?

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Awakening

You ever just have one of the moments where you're suddenly struck by something you already know, but perhaps you see it in a new way? Yeah, well, I have the moments occasionally. If you don't, you're either perfect or not paying attention.

The Young Women gave a presentation at church today. It was wonderful. All the girls gave some great talks on the different values, the leaders each bore their testimonies and all of them sang a beautiful song about being strong and courageous. As I was listening to the closing song, I was overwhelmed by what great confidence the Lord has in me. He has given me the opportunity to guide, teach, and comfort two of His children. I know that my kids are children of God, I've always known that. But, I never really think about the fact that it is my duty (coupled with my husband) to make sure that these two little ones have the foundation they need to make it in this world and onto the next. I am far from perfect and often find myself struggling to get by day to day - physically, mentally or spiritually - sometimes all three depending on the day. Yet, I am supposed to guide my kids in the right direction?! Good thing there is prayer, cuz I've got a lot of questions!


Dylan is such a tender-hearted child. I hope that my hardness never rubs off on him. I almost feel like I have nothing to teach him, but that he has everything to teach me. He has already learned so much about charity and forgiveness. He constantly amazes me with the things he knows, I definitely underestimate his intelligence. I hope that he is able to keep his care-free spirit throughout his life. I also hope that he is able to hold onto his abundant energy supply...it will come in handy later.

So far, Dylan and Lena are doing pretty good in the loving each other department. I just hope that their relationship will continue to grow in such a positive direction. I want them to be able to lean on each other as much as they lean on Mike and I. I hope that they will be good examples to each other. I really hope that they will understand the importance of staying close to their family. I hope that they continue to make each other laugh.

As I was watching the young women today (a couple of whom I have known from the time they were babies), my only thought was 'oh no, Lena will not be that old'. Actually it's more denial. When Mike blessed Lena back in June, there were two things that really stood out to me. First, that she will be a joy to her family. And that, she is. Second, he blessed her that she will have a strong bond with me. I pray every day that we will have a close relationship as she grows up. I never want her to feel like she is alone in this world. That no matter where her life takes her, I will always be there to love and support her...unconditionally.
I know that day to day I really struggle to find the 'Mom' in me. I don't lack in the self confidence department. But, I do lack in confidence when it comes to being a mom. I really hate to admit that, but it's the truth. I know that I can do better, that I can try harder and that I can have more patience. However, I know that I have someone cheering me on and who will help me out when I feel like I'm lacking. I also know that there is no one else on this Earth who will love and cherish Dylan and Lena more than I do. And I think that counts for something.
So, here's to being thankful for a new day, a fresh start, a re-awakening.