I've never been one for New Year's resolutions. Maybe it's my tendency toward distractability or lack of stick-with-itness, but I've only ever followed through with one resolution. So this post isn't about the shoulds and musts and resolves you need. Let's all breathe a sigh of relief together, shall we? No, this post is about what I've needed, and I'm guessing it might resonate with some of … [Read more...]
our child is struggling with church
One of our children is struggling with church. The volume of our music is too much for him. The lights and screens are a tad too bright. Sitting still during the sermon is often beyond his abilities. Usually, he and I walk the halls during that part of church. Yesterday, that meant talking to a new and patient friend about his favorite reptiles, including waterfall toads, troodon, … [Read more...]
lessons learned post-surgery
One year ago today, my baby girl and I were in St. Louis for a major and life-changing surgery for her. Back then, I shared some of what we were feeling in a post here. Here’s what God’s taught us in the year since I sent her back with Dr. Park and his surgical team: We are called to be faithful, not fruitful. We went into this surgery knowing it was right for Zoe but with no way of knowing … [Read more...]
still true
(Originally posted on Dinglefest blog in November 2012.) I didn't want to be discharged from the hospital a week ago. As long as we were in the hospital, I had someone with more training than me there to respond if my boy had another seizure. Out of the hospital, I had butt valium. (Okay, so it's called diazepam, but it's valium administered rectally so...) We left the hospital knowing that … [Read more...]
I see you.
I see you, mama warrior. I see your tears, even as you quickly blink them away. I see your exhaustion, even as you try to hide the yawns. I see your plodding steps, one after another to do whatever it takes for your child. You’re wondering if you’re doing enough. You’re wondering if you should look into one more therapy or one more device or one more specialist. You’re wondering if all your … [Read more...]
the beauty of Furnace Living
Southern Living. Country Living. Coastal Living. Maybe it’s because I’ve lived my whole life in the American South, but those magazine titles call forth warm, cozy feelings of serenity in style, cooking, and home decor. As a little girl, they spoke to me of what expectations I should hold for the future. Sure, they’re romanticized (how is it that toys are rarely visible in any of the homes, … [Read more...]