The Perfect Formula Tested

My theory for peacefulness in the house is snow. I asked God for that blessing again and we haven't seen much around here. We had a great run of 4 days where everyone was having fun and for the most part getting along. The temper tantrums were minimal and joy abounded. Well, that's over now and it's back to reality.

Like I've said before, with 8 people in the house and only 7 days a week my odds for peaceful days are not so good. It usually helps my odds if a couple of kids have off or difficult days together, except when those off days are at school and end you in the principal's office. Technically only one went to the principal's office, but the other one was on his way when I showed up to his class to leave early. Now really, how do you get sent to the principal in pre-school? I knew my little man would find a way if it was possible and telling your teacher no repeatedly should do the trick.

So, I'm going to ask for snow again and see if that brings back any harmony to the house this week-end. In truth, God is teaching me that regardless of circumstances or behaviors my hope and joy is found in Him. I just need to keep telling myself that and again clinging to the Cross of Christ!!!

The Perfect Formula

I've finally figured out the perfect formula for the perfect day! First, snow on the ground so that everyone is excited when they wake up. Second, light school schedule so that kids are excited to go play in the snow. Third, make lots of yummy food throughout the day for frozen kids to eat happily. Now if only God would grant us with this fresh snow every morning we may have something good going on here.

If only life was that simple. A formula or check list to follow to ensure a delighted heart and peaceful home. I just witnessed three days in a row where the floor didn't fall out from under me and nobody cried. Wow, what a wonderful respite God has granted me. No one broke the camel's back or pushed anyone over the edge. Either we are bonding better or they're all wearing me down so that I just don't notice anymore.

The plain truth is there is no perfect check list, just God's grace. Grace sufficient for all my needs. I had to go through last week to get to this week. I had to remember that Christ is all I need and that He loves me. Now, the real test is next week?!

There and Back Again, an adoptive mothers week.

I know it's not fair to just say adoptive mother because this could be any mothers story, but it's my blog and therefore my story!

What a week. I'm glad it's almost over. How can one person withstand so many emotional mood swings in just a few days? Started the week hopeful to have an answer to the boys being legally free. No such luck. Crested the week wanting to hide in a cave and never come out. I searched and we don't have such Hobbit dwellings in Fallon. Ended the week lowering one little boys meds and waiting for the fallout. Not one day has gone according to plan. I know they never will, but I have hope.

I feel sorry for my husband who has to pick up the pieces of his emotionally weak wife after he has dealt with inmates all day. Actually, maybe I should trade places with him. He can tell people to get back in their cells and be quiet, Nice!

It's hard to tell if I'm getting through to the boys, Joey in particular. We have discussions, well, I lecture and ask him questions that he doesn't answer. We've had a lot of these episodes this week. I pray that he will open up to me and let me in.

I get really nervous when people praise me in the endeavor that we are in because I feel like such a failure 100 times a day. I know for a fact that the only way that I keep breathing every day and getting out of bed and loving this household is because Christ is the air, reason and love that I live in. When all else seems futile, He is all I can cling to.

He who knew NO sin became sin so that I might be righteous before God. That is why we do what we do. Not because I think I'm an exceptional mother, anyone who knows me knows that's not the truth, but because I serve an awesome God!

Good Sign!

I guess it's a good sign that Jesse and I haven't frustrated, demented and warped our children beyond repair when my 12 year old daughter says to me today, "Next time we adopt I want a little sister." Now really, "Next time?" How about I get through this time first. We have three little boys in our home that we are still trying to adapt to and love. I have six children in my home that I'm trying to nurture, train and care for. So, really, next time? Well Melanie lets get through tomorrow with love in our words and kindness in our hearts then maybe in three or four or five years we might bring the subject up again.

Sweet though, don't you think????