February flew by; but good golly there were way too many gloomy, cold days. I am so ready for warm weather and sunshine! I’m not sure I’ve ever been this ready for Spring. Actually, I’m really just ready to get my toes in the sand and sit my booty on a beach.
This month I feel like I learned a lot – about homeschooling and motherhood. I was also reminded that life is just down-right hard sometimes. Here’s a few lessons I’m taking with me as I leave February behind…
The Word Stupid Can Break Your Heart
On February 12th my heart broke.
As he worked on his spelling words, he put his head in his hands and said he was stupid.
I heard something no mother of a seven-year-old should have to hear.
I could see the sadness and frustration in his eyes.
In that moment I hated Apraxia, Dyspraxia, ADHD and all the things that make learning so hard.
I grabbed his little face in my hands, I looked him in the eye and I promised him that he was not stupid. I told him he knows more about vehicles than anyone I know. I told him he teaches me new things daily. I told him he makes me laugh with his amazing sense of humor.
He is far from stupid. He is making me see what truly matters in a world that wants to measure success by test scores. A world that wants everyone to fit into the same box. No test could ever measure his joy, sense of humor, imagination or creativity.
This kid who struggles so much, is teaching his mama more than I’m probably teaching him. He is brilliant in his own, unique way. God is using his quirks and differences to change me into a better human being.
I’m Not a Fan of Vegas
I spent a few days in Vegas earlier this month. It was my first time to visit and it will most likely be my last. Although I had a blast hanging with my cousins and getting a break from the daily grind, Vegas just isn’t for me. For one, I don’t gamble. None of the shows intrigued me. The shopping was expensive. The best thing about the trip – the amazing breakfast I had!
By the end of day three, I was tired of people shoving stuff in my face as I walked down the strip. If I want to deal with big crowds, I will head to NYC.
I’m Sick of Cold Weather
As you can probably tell from the introduction to this blog post!
So. Over. Cold. Weather.
I’ve never longed for the beach in February as much as I have this year.
Take me back…
I Feel So Much Shifting
God keeps reminding me that homeschooling isn’t just benefiting Jackson, it’s remaking me.
God is showing me life is not about all the things we accomplish or about doing more.
He’s showing me that grades and academic success are not the end goal – relationships are. My relationship with Jackson. My relationship with Jesus.
He is showing me I can break free from what the world calls success and rest completely in Him. Slow days. Surrendered plans.
I can kick my feet up by the fire at 3:00 in the afternoon and enjoy a good book.
I can watch Jackson roll monster trucks through the mud as the sun dances down the horizon.
My need to do all. the. things. is disappearing.
I recently heard a song on the radio and it made me smile – because I feel like its what Jesus is making me more aware of, what He is causing my heart to crave more than big dreams and a busy world…
It’s a momma singing songs about the Lord. It’s a daddy spending family time that the world said he cannot afford. These simple moments change the world…
Dream small.
Don’t bother like you’ve gotta do it all.
Just let Jesus use you where you are.
One day at a time.
It’s visiting the widow down the street or dancing on a Friday with your friends with special needs.
These simple things can change the world.
Homeschool.
Special needs parenting.
Jesus, in His goodness, knew these were the things that would bring the change my soul desperately needed.
It’s Good to Leave Your Comfort Zone
Whether that’s offering indoor photo sessions (which I did this month) or leaving your kid for a few days after years of not having a break (which I also did!), leaving your comfort zone can be a good thing.
Sometimes You Waste Money to Make Your Kids Dream Come True
This month we took Jackson to Monster Jam and he lasted 30 minutes. I don’t consider that $80 wasted, and here’s why.
Just How Much I Depend On My Hubby
THE DAY John left for a week-long business trip to NYC, Jackson started running a 103 temp and vomiting profusely.
Jackson and I were both sick the majority of the time John was gone. We were just winging it the best we could.
Boy do I depend on my husband! Whether it’s working hard to provide for our family, doing dishes, teaching math or getting up with Jackson at night, John is a hands-on family man! I know this, but I realized it even more the week he was gone and we were doing our best to survive!
My Kid Loves Red Velvet Cake As Much As I Do
And because of that, I had to hide my birthday cake! I didn’t want to share anymore with him! HA!
Magnolia Bakery Has The BEST Banana Pudding
I didn’t get to go to NYC with John like I really wanted to, so John sent NYC to me!
BEST. BIRTHDAY. PRESENT. EVER!
BEST. BANANA. PUDDING. EVER!!!
I’m so glad I found your site and feel like I found a friend. Thank you for the encouragement. You have a beautiful family and I pray the Lord continue to bless and strengthen you.
I’m so glad you came across my blog! Thanks for taking a minute to leave a comment. I hope my words encourage you and bring hope whatever journey you are facing! Welcome!