December

Jake turned 7

Luke turned 4

Hard to believe how quick time flies. December has come and gone and I am just now able to take a breath. I have thought of writing often, but there just never seemed to be time, or I have been too tired to keep my eyes open. First, both my boys turned another year older. I can hardly believe that Jake is 7 and Luke is 4. For the first time in 3 years we had a party for my boys to celebrate them and all they have been through. Unfortunately, Lu and I spent the majority of the morning in the ER and Lu was diagnosed with pneumonia once again. I had to argue with the doctors to let us go home, but we did make it in time for Lu to open his presents. We have been through so much these last few years and my life has changed drastically because of my boys. Between Jake's behavior and Luke's health, life has been a constant battle, yet so rewarding. Rob and I have learned to celebrate the little things and feel so grateful for what we have. I admit it is hard and sometimes I question why God chose me for this life. Yet, I am often brought to tears, by how extremely amazing my kids are and how lucky I am to have Rob and my family. So many people live a much more difficult life than I, so how can I be ungrateful. I am blessed, therefore that became my theme for our Christmas card.

We had the opportunity to go to Disneyland with my parents and sis. Nothing gives me more joy than watching my kids smile. Despite the busy day, the kids had so much fun. Jake LOVED the Christmas parade and Ry couldn't stop smiling. Her and Hannah have so much fun together and once again I was aware of how very blessed I am by my family. My kids are so loved and happy. What more could a mom ask for?

Then Christmas Eve finally came. Such a special day celebrating the birth of Christ. Another reason I am so blessed is that not only do we celebrate Christ's birth, but the season of family, love and believing. I am so grateful that Ry, Jake, Lu and Hannah all believe in Santa. The girls were so excited and both wanted new bikes this year. We all spent the night at my parents so that Santa could visit the kids together. Christmas morning was so fun and my kiddos were so happy. These are the moments that make all the difficult days worth the struggles. Sometimes I wonder if those that have not had similar trials can truly appreciate these moments. Living those rough roads gives you a whole new perspective of life. Another reason that I am so grateful for my life.
As we get ready to end another year and begin 2011, there is so much to reflect on. There are so many things I could do to improve my life, but mostly I pray that God gives me the wisdom to raise my three kids. Life is filled with ups and downs, the challenge is in how you deal with both. My kids and Rob show me so much and help me be better, a better wife, mom, daughter, friend and teacher. I have no idea what this next year will bring, but my prayer is that I never lose sight of all the blessings God has given me.