Randomness from my World

A random compilation of recent thoughts/events:

1. Layla has been sick almost constantly over the last few months, one thing after another, and it is... maddening. I hate seeing my little girl sick and feeling helpless to do anything, but also it makes for more: fussing and waking up in the night. I'm tired.

2. Jude is really into all things Disney thanks to a Disney compilation that is playing in the car, oh, pretty much constantly. He is really digging princesses right now, especially Ariel... not sure... I'll just leave that alone.

3. Layla has taken to checking herself out any time she comes in contact with a mirror. She catches her own reflection and is delighted. She laughs and spins and lifts up her shirt, yes, that's right. She can't get enough, and I feel like I'm glimpsing into my future.

4. I was cutting Jude's toenails the other day and one shot straight into my eye, like a toenail sniper. Ouch... and ew.

5. I'm creatively really energized right now, but having a hard time finding... time. I've been working on some DIY projects and am so excited about what I'm learning! I'm kind of obsessed with DIY blogs right now. Future post will expound.

There's more, but one little stinker just woke up and is crying, so I better attend.

January Musings

I'm a little late on a New Year's post, but what's new? I've been thinking about resolutions and decided not to jinx myself as I inevitably fail at the follow through, somewhere around April. Of course there are changes that need to be made, areas that I want to improve on, but I'm trying to find practical ways I can implement some changes, hopefully lifestyle changes. Many repeat offenders: exercise more, read my bible more, eat better, etc. I saw a sticker on a friend's facebook wall that said, "I can't believe it's been a year since I didn't become a better person." I found that so funny and, unfortunately so... spot on.
All that said, I'm turning 30 in a few months and realizing that things have been changing in me. Not in the expected freak-out-cuz-i'm-almost-30-way.
God is... stirring things up in me. At least that's the way I see it. All of the sudden, I feel like I've got things to do. I feel like, I can do anything. I've discovered interests and passions, and I'm energized. Now, simultaneously I feel limited because, let's face it, how much free time does a stay-at-home mom have to pursue these things? Pretty much the time my children are asleep. And some of that time I need to sleep. BUT, even with my time constraints (and who doesn't have those?), I'm feeling hopeful, energetic, and full of potential.
More to come about some of these interests, but I'm excited. I can't help but feel I'm finally starting realize my potential, at 30... took me long enough :) I just hope I can pursue what I should, and have the wherewithal to see them through.
I'll expound soon. Something to look forward to... all three of you that read this.

My Little Man

Tomorrow is my little man's fourth birthday. I may be biased, but this fella is special. He made me a mother, and he forever changed my life. From day one, he has been a joy. Before him, I had never been so nurturing, so blessed, so challenged, so stretched, so amused, and so adoring.
He is hilarious. He never ceases to crack me up with his perspective, his impersonations, his word play, his personality.
He is unique. I cannot put this kid in a box, because he just will not fit. He can be tender, compassionate, aggressive, imaginative, inquisitive, assertive, empathetic, mischievous, stubborn, and ethical all within the hour.
He seems to see more than you would think. I don't just mean physically; I mean he is incredibly insightful and intuitive.
His adoration melts my heart, and I know why mothers and sons have such a special relationship. There's nothing like it (I like who I am in his eyes - a beautiful super hero with a great singing voice).

I must say parenting is more than I imagined it would be. The love is more encompassing, the challenge more persistent, the growing and stretching more necessary, the need for patience and grace more vital, and blessing more than can be described.

I am so thankful for this little one, who is all too quickly becoming less little than I am ready for.

Father, help me to be the mother he needs. Thank you for entrusting him to us; we do not take it lightly.