School - back to the routine. I was singing the happy song on Tuesday morning as I drove our two oldest to school. I even embarrassed them a little - though completely unintentionally. Really! I was so happy to have my family up with me early in the morning, preparing for the day and ready and eager to learn. Selfishly, this just meant everyone would go to bed a little bit earlier and I would get a little more sleep...or so I thought....
The school year has begun - filled with the forms that need to be completed, schedules that need to be re-arranged, lunches to be packed, and late night homework to finish. I have always said I am best with routine. When I know what to expect in terms of schedule and find a groove, I think I work best. However, I admit, this change over has made me a little bit cranky.
I guess I had my routine this summer. I stayed up late and laughed with the boys, and often fell asleep on the sofa - or tried to fall asleep in bed - with the boys up to crazy antics in our bedroom. I'd wake up early, try not to wake anyone else and go through my morning routine and off to work. Check in with the family during the day - come home from work and see what the evening plans were. Now that school has started - I don't like being the grouchy Mom who says - "time for bed," "did you get your homework done," and "we need to go."
So - I've decided that while I still operate best with routine and a schedule - I need to lighten up just a little. Lord, I need grace - and the right words. Thank you for your patience with me -and your never changing with the shifting shadows.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Being There
Joyce was in the throws of raising her three children, working hard to provide a good home life for Kaitlyn, Jocelyn and Chris. She didn't just invest in the lives of her kids and call it good. She invested in her community. My husband preferred going to her pharmacy because of her friendliness and constant help. Countless others frequented her store because they liked to be around her. She is the kind of person who always made you laugh, asked about your own kids, arranged time to spend with friends - she like being there. There for friends, her kids and her community.
Well, Joyce can no longer be there - it's our turn to step up. Joyce died unexpectedly in her sleep almost 3 weeks ago. Shock has filled her community and you can almost feel the loss when you walk into her store. It's almost awkward. The flowers are starting to fade. Her kids will start school next week. The shock is beginning to wear off and the reality is setting in.
In the midst of crisis management, I learned what a hole she has left. But I am confident many have learned from her model - though she never intended that to be. Being there has so much value - more than a wrapped gift or a bonus from work - she was there. And the challenge to me, make the most of every opportunity - to be there, for those right along your path.
Well, Joyce can no longer be there - it's our turn to step up. Joyce died unexpectedly in her sleep almost 3 weeks ago. Shock has filled her community and you can almost feel the loss when you walk into her store. It's almost awkward. The flowers are starting to fade. Her kids will start school next week. The shock is beginning to wear off and the reality is setting in.
In the midst of crisis management, I learned what a hole she has left. But I am confident many have learned from her model - though she never intended that to be. Being there has so much value - more than a wrapped gift or a bonus from work - she was there. And the challenge to me, make the most of every opportunity - to be there, for those right along your path.
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