Growing.

When my grandson was born, we sat around and watched his every move.  He was the first one and with his birth, life changed.  Every birthday, every year, things changed in his life.  He is now 19 and in the Army National Guard. 

I was reminded, this morning, that fruit grows.  You don't plant a tree and have fruit in one or two weeks.  Trees take time to produce.  They take time to develop and mature.  So do we.

I believe it took me much longer to heal following my caregiving experience because I wasn't educated in what would transpire.  By the time I was in the center of taking care of my loved ones, it was full speed ahead.

Fortunately, I had some loving people in my life that carried much of the load with me.  Now, I know some things to alert you about.  You must take care of yourself.  You must allow others to help.  You need all the balance you can get!

Smile...it helps.

There is nothing like icing straight from the bowl!  Licking the brownie covered spoon is heaven.  Cookie dough made with a new fresh bag of chocolate chips makes my mouth happy.

It is difficult to remember what makes us happy and laugh when in the middle of  caregiving and the potential crisis that comes with it.  It is easy to draw into oneself and live life by rote when everything has potential for pain and sorrow.  It is also easy to withdraw from family and friends.

Buy a roll of cookie dough next time you are at the store.  Call a friend.  Share that dough with someone who listens, laughs with you, knows you.  Embrace them.  Include them in your schedule and let them know what you need.  Let them hug you and share the future, whatever it might be.

Friends!!

This picture was taken several years ago at a Fall Halloween Festival party.  I captured Linda Rose and Patty Bailey's granddaughters in deep conversation.  These two families have been a part of Crossroads Fellowship in Houston for many years and the heritage they have provided for their children and grandchildren is a firm foundation.

I value the friendships that have been a part of my life since childhood.  I know that when tough decisions come, there will be a friend who will be there to guide and support me. 

Keep them close.  Keep an open dialog with those who lift you up and give you comfort and truth,  It isn't just hearing what you want, but we also need  the truth to keep us balanced.

Contact someone today!!

Mother's Day

Mother's Day celebration, 2014, was held in Galveston.  Kamri was waiting in the Jeep.   We had the top and the doors off and lots of wind on I45 South.

The waves were rolling in from the Gulf.  This sailboat was bobbing off the seawall, close to the Pier.
Below, is the view of the Pier from Murdoch's.  We were resting in the chairs, enjoying the breeze coming from the water.

 

 

Why am I reminiscing?  Because, today I feel content and peaceful.  This place is a source of enjoyment and healing for me.  Find your place and allow God to fill your mind and soul with the elements that make your life complete.                                                                                             



In TIme...

Yesterday I put pictures of my niece, nephew and daughter, Angela, on the blog when the kids were first introduced to our family.  Today, I want to put a picture of where they are now.  Love both of the pictures!

Caregiving can be a challenge.  Too often we abandon difficult projects because they become hard.  We can't snap our fingers and see results.  Instant gratification is the theme of this age, but it takes a lifetime to develop beautiful things and to get the sweetest fruit and vegetables.  We have to plant, water and wait.

Where ever you are in the caregiving experience, don't give up.  You will turn around one day and things will be at the place you want.  You will see the progress of your loved one and know the joy that comes with perseverance and tenacity.

 

This is a mother with children......5 to 20!  Or a caregiver who has a lot of doctor appointments!

Love in Bloom....

 

 

Several years ago, God brought two additions to our family.  This was taken shortly after Chasity and Timothy became a part of the Reynolds family. 

They no longer look exactly like this, but have grown into teenagers.  The joy in their faces makes me wonder what was happening at that moment!

I enjoy going through the picture albums and videos.  They take me back to events that were enjoyable and loving.  It is so important to remember the precious times with those we love.  These memories can help balance the difficult times in caregiving.

Today, pick an event that was special and fulfilling.  Close your eyes.  Go back to that place and fill your heart with those moments of love and closeness!

                                                                                                   Laugh often!!

HOPE

 

I love the picture of the pelican taking off.  His wings are wide and he is lifting himself into the sky.  I also love the picture of our tour group in front of the empty tomb in Jerusalem.  Because of that spot, I can endeavor to spread my wings and achieve new goals.

HOPE

At times, caregiving is hopeless.  The pressure of caring for a loved one can be devastating and make us doubt every decision we make for them, and for ourselves.  But, because I believe that Jesus Christ rose from the grave, I have a hope that life cane change.  I believe that God will step into the chaos and give me a clear picture of what I need to do and how to do it.

Take stock of what you believe and why.  Give God a chance to prove Himself to you and allow you to soar above the difficulty and find your way.

Jeremiah 29:11