Words That Make A Difference

I thought I was okay.

There has been some stress-inducing moments in my life this past six months.

Being sick

Forcing daughter to break-up with boyfriend

Managing daughter's ADHD

Someone feeling not-so-loved because so much attention going to other two sisters (see two previous items).

Daughter not finding job and working

College decisions

Life decisions

Busy calling at church

Being yelled at by children

Not appreciated by children

Watching daughter's "friends" be unkind to her

Being unsupported by friends when I reach out

Not having anyone to talk to about my kids

Taking care of my mother full-time

These are just a few.

This past weekend I was in Rexburg for Makenzie's ballroom dance competition.  We stayed a few extra days to visit with friends.  On Sunday evening their oldest daughter came by with her new husband.  

I hadn't seen her in a while.

We talked for a long time.

She said to me, "you seem different." 

"You aren't the same."

"You aren't as spunky."

I shrugged and said, "really?" 

Knowing exactly what she did mean.

You see, I just don't have it in me.

Then she said, "I want you to know that you have been a huge influence in my life."

"You have helped shaped me into who I am."

"I wouldn't be the person I am without your influence."

I starting crying.

And couldn't stop.

And I realized that I was so desperate to hear those Words.

To feel appreciated and to feel that I have made a difference in my children's lives.

Most of the time they begrudge me and don't listen to my advice.

And can even be mean.

I don't deserve it.

I know I'm a good mom.

But even good mom's need to hear it.

And so when I heard this 25 year-old say this to me, I was overwhelmed with gratitude.

But the tears made me realize that I'm not okay.

And I will fix that.

Shauna Shiels Irish Dance for sale

Eye catching dress made by Shauna Shiels for 2011 Oireachtas.  This dress is the center of attention on stage due to the fun, bright colors and 100s of sparkling black and white Swarovski crystals. You literally cannot help noticing this dress. The black velvet is a wonderful contrast to the bright pink and yellow. This dress comes from a smoke free home and includes matching pink bloomers, headband and silver & pink gem number holder.

Full purchase price refundable within 3 days of receipt of dress. Shipping to be paid by buyer in case of return.

The Sun Is Up

The view from where I'm lying in bed. I can hear the birds. They sound as happy as I do.

Impossible

Happy Birthday Emma Lou

I'm feeling a bit of relief this year because I don't have to do any parties for my girls. We don't do parties after 12 except for sweet 16. This year my girls turn 19, 15, & 13. I decided the beginning of January that since we weren't doing parties we would get them each a nice gift and also do a dad and daughter date. Emma's birthday is first and I'm feeling like the plan was a pretty good success. Chris and Emma went on their date Saturday night. They went to the library to check out some music books, cookbooks, and music CDs. Then they had dinner at one of Emma's favorite places, Noodles and Company. Then dessert at Moonstruck. Then they went to the movies to see Skyfall. Emma had a smile on her face when she got home and had a great time.

Today was her actual birthday and the tradition in our family is that you get to pick whatever you want for dinner and I'll make it. Emma chose Chinese Chicken. It's like an orange chicken but there's no orange in it. We had steamed rice and salad with it. For dessert it was a DQ midnight truffle cake. The girls and Chris loved it.

In between dinner and dessert she opened presents. She was very surprised with her guitar and very happy.

I think she had a good day. She felt loved and that's what is important.

Her birthday interview will be coming shortly.

Heart Attacked

Last night while Heidi was laying on the couch in the living room a group of giggling girls came by to heart attack our front door. It was for Heidi who had surgery yesterday. I was in the back so didn't hear anything until the doorbell rang. Of course by the time we got to the door the culprits were gone but what we found was our purple door plastered with various sized paper hearts. Some had messages hand written to Heidi.

She really felt loved by her fellow Beehives!

Pre-Surgery Lunch

Heidi will have surgery tomorrow to fix her collar bone. After her pre-op appt today we thought we would get some food. Chris wanted to take us to the Rick Creek Tavern. Seriously, you would have to know this place was here to find it. It's tucked into the woods off of the Old Cornelius Pass Road. We've ordered some burgers and while we wait we are enjoying the warmth of this fire.