Tomorrow is likely going to be the 2-week countdown of the kiddos. Today's blog is shorter, but I wanted to check-in. How am I feeling?
I'm feeling nostalgic and making sure I am truly present as much as possible in the limited time with the kiddos. I feel okay, and know it will only get crazier as May 23rd approaches. I have had tears well-up twice in the last two days. Once was when I was reading a message to Ezekiel from a photo book made by Holly. The other time was this morning when Brittney told me how Ezekiel responded to a question she asked this morning. Our little man is clearly processing. Ezekiel asked Brittney yesterday if he was staying here forever. It was asked in relationship to what he did for his birthday last year. He said that last year at his birthday, he came to live with us. I felt a sense of pause, maybe even a sense of disappointment that he was not going to be at our house this evening when he asked where we were going after school. That doesn't mean Ezekiel doesn't want to go home or doesn't love his parents. He clearly does. He is just conflicted. He loves us and he loves them. It's heartbreaking and so difficult for a nearly 6-year old to process. We have begun packing clothes, toys, and such--taking a load of stuff over to Jackie and Grant's today when we picked them up. The closets will get emptier, and I am bracing for the impact when I open them and they are empty. I know it will be tough. Today, since it's teacher appreciation week, it's only fitting I go here. I want to thank his teacher, Mrs. Pemberton and the paraprofessional--Mrs. Rachelle. Honestly, the entire Hallsville Primary School staff deserve to be thanked. Ezekiel has had some challenging moments for them and I can't thank them enough for the love and attention they've given him. For the year we've had him, the growth and maturity comes as much or more from their influence as opposed to any influence I've had. Thank you for helping and encouraging him even in the challenging moments. The quick story I'll share tonight is one for Ashley. I will never forget the thrill-seeker that she is. From the first months we had her, she loved Ezekiel tickling her rough, trying to scare her, and even being tossed in the air. There was a day--for a long time, when the only time Brittney or I could get her to laugh was to play tickle her roughly or to playfully toss her in the air and let her kick her feet. Whether the snort-laugh or how she giggles when you get on the ground and crawl (chase) after her---these memories will make me smile for the rest of my life. The lesson I would share with you is: how can you encourage yourself or those around you to do as Ashley does, snort-laugh or giggle uncontrollably? Life is too short to not enjoy and create wonderful memories like this with all of those around us. I guess another way of saying this would be: how can you not take life so seriously? Ashley has taught me this....and I admit I don't always practice this lesson....but she reminds me of its importance. Until next time, thank you for reading!
1 Comment
Kelly
5/9/2018 11:39:10 am
I like reading your blog & it makes ME pause & think about learning MORE for my own kids...to pause:..thank God for them..the blessings God has given me
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AuthorHallsville resident. Foster Parent. School board member. Politico. Jesus Follower. Cardinals Fan #MizzouMade Archives
February 2019
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