What's Getting Me Through...

We are again in the throws of tax season and I have temporarily lost my husband to the world of numbers, 10-keys, w-2s, partnerships and whatever else is involved in tax stuff. Its a tough time of year, but each year truly does seem to get better, we figure out a better balance for things. Of course, it is tough on David not getting to see Matthew much so the time they have is precious and packed full of fun. Usually Saturday morning is their time and I get a chance to relax and do what I need to do.

There have been a couple of things that have helped to get me through this time of year.

First,

I have been able to just crawl in bed after Matthew goes to sleep and loose myself in reading. Which has been something I really like to do but haven't had the time to. So I just completed the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Series and have now jumped on the Hunger Games band wagon. Many times I am woken up when David comes home because he's taking off my glasses and putting my Nook on the nightstand.

Second,

Because of David working later, 9pm-10pm, I've been able to catch up on some ZZZ's. Granted, I miss my time, but at the end of the day, with keeping up with Matthew and my ever growing belly, I'm tired. So, it's been nice to relax and know that its ok.

Thirdly,

In my quest to not do everything alone and think I have to save the world by myself, I emailed my mom a couple of weeks. I said "Mom, in an effort to ask for help, if you and dad are ever needing entertainment at dinner time, Matthew and I would love to come over and provide that." So, about once a week we go eat over at their house and it really does provide a good distraction for both of us and they get their fix of Matthew. Having family here has become one of my biggest blessing in life.

Fourth,

SOmetimes, I just don't have it in me, and that's okay, so these guys come in and save the day. Matthew has become a big fan of this show to the point that he always ask for the Veggie Tales fruit snacks when we're at the store.


Second to last,

Face time. Every night we call David at work before bedtime and Matthew and him have a little chat and get to share a little time together. I know it makes it easier for David, though its not the best situation, it does give him a little glimmer of being involved. Its a joy to see both of them light up when they see each other.



And lastly,

This little cutie has truly been a joy to be with and we have had the opportunity to have some great quality time together. This has been a blessing in disquise because I knew that I would be adding Fridays to my work schedule and Jellybean will be arriving in August. I just wanted to make sure that our time together didn't get lost in the shuffle. Well, I'm happy to say that we have truly been having wonderful times together. He talks up a storm and many times we find ourselves just lost in conversation with each other...its like he's a real person!!!  I have found that God has really allowed me to stop and just be present with Matthew and I have treasured those times.

So, tax season isn't all bad. But we want our Daddy and husband back soon. It is nice knowing this is never a permanent thing throughout the year, but we try to make sure that we support him at home and his endeavors at work. I'm never disappointed with lessons during this time of year on how to be a good wife and mother.



Snuggle Loving

Matthew has become quite fond of our animals lately. Everyday when we get home we wants to know where Snuggles (or "Snuggies" or "Lazy Cat") is. The other day he was "loving" on her and was trying to pick her up. Much to my surprise Snuggles went along with it and actually seemed to enjoy it. I think she's giving into the reality.



It started in the living room and then he chased her all around

1st attempt at picking up

Loving

He just giggles the whole time he plays with her



Tent Makers

The other day David declared "I'm making Matthew a tent later today and I have plans." Sure enough he did and he built a sheet tent for Matthew in his toy room. They spent a long time in there just laughing, reading and talking. Matthew has since been going in there alot and reading in his tent.

Every tent is not complete without a flashlight

They are two peas in a pod

New Changes and Struggles

A few months ago I was presented with a wonderful opportunity to join a local (yes! that's in Waco) private practice counseling group, Pathway Counseling. Through prayer and lots of weighing pros/cons and conversations David and I decided that I would accept that position but only do it one day a week and continue at Scott and White for three days, because of the reliable pay and benefits that are needed right now with Jellybean on the way. At this point, I am looking to build my practice and establish myself so that later this year we might be in a position to begin only working in Waco at Pathway. I will be subleasing an office from one of the ladies for that time which is manageable for one day.

I am beyond blessed and excited about this opportunity especially since it was a professional goal of mine. I feel honored to have been invited and considered for this opportunity and have found good support in the meantime. Many of the things that this will lead to are a flexible schedule to be available to my family for activities, sickness, etc. and also to be able to pick them up from school, when they reach that age. It has been a struggle to be in Temple, though not unbearable, because I just feel away from my family and community. It will be nice to work in the place I call home. I also will surrounded by solid, professional women who have already proven themselves trustworthy, honest, and professional.

So, now the hard part and the reason I have cried at least once everyday so far this week. I will be adding Fridays to my work week. Which means I will not be with Matthew. I honestly feel as though I'm going back to work from my maternity leave all over again. This will be a tough transition but I have found hope in two things: 1) a friend reminded me Don't all good things require a little sacrifice?! and 2) as I pray through my feelings I am constantly saying "God you brought me to this opportunity and you made it clear that I am to do this, so you WILL bring me through."  I find some peace and truth in that. It will be nice at least knowing that I'm in town on Fridays and can be available if needed. However, I can't deny the hurt and worry I feel about this transition and just that Matthew doesn't feel like I'm doing this because I want to leave him but more that I need to in order to bring about the schedule we desire as a family.

So upward and onward with new opportunities and reaching personal and professional goals as well as hopefully making life easier and better for my family and kiddos. It will be a short term sacrifice for a long term gain. I am already learning to be more mindful and present in the time I do have at home with Matthew so this will only enable that to happen more. In the end I am excited and hopeful and Even so, It is well with my soul.

Sports Man!!

Matthew is all about sports. Its actually a shame they dont' have anything for younger boys, it seems like everything starts when they are 4. I'm anxious to get him into sports because we are always playing one sport or another around the house. Or, we go to the park and kick the soccer ball around.  Here's some action shots from various times.

He ran into my bathroom the other morning like this...cracks me up all the time.

Pick up game in the street

Yea, we're training him for the kids slam dunk contest at the Baylor games

 

Time with Daddy

Last night we were just hanging around the house before bath time. Matthew loves to imitate his Daddy and I just thought this was too cute when I walked in the living room.