Random thoughts on a snowy, wet day.



 Day 18 of the latest hospital stay for Mike. I feel like I’m in the movie Ground hog day. Same thing, different day. Work job #1, go home to let Oscar out, go to job # 2, go home to let Oscar out & feed him, off to the hospital to visit Mike, home by 8:00, snuggle Oscar for awhile, eat whatever, go to bed, wake up and start all over. 

Today was a little different, Job #1 called a snow day so here I am, working at job #2. Taking care of 15 kids. “Mrs. L, he won’t play with me”, “Mrs. L. He’s being mean to me” Mrs. L, somebody’s water bottle spilled and there is a big puddle on the floor” , “Mrs. L, can you tie this?”, “Mrs. L, how do you spell bunny?”, Mrs. L, I had the pink puppy and she stole it from me, “Mrs. L, can you iron my pearler beads?”, …. Just when my head is going to explode if I hear “Mrs. L” one more time, I get a random hug or a colored picture which I can’t even identify, but am told it’s for me because “I love you and you’re so nice”…. Yeah, it’s worth it. Sometimes it’s a different kind of stress but it’s also a lot of laughs, creativity & fun. 

Even on the chaotic days, children truly are a gift from God and I’m blessed to be able to work with so many between both jobs. All of different ages, with different personalities, challenges, expressions, abilities. Each one unique yet still made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).

So, although the last 18 days have been quite the roller coaster ride of ups and downs, highs and lows, I am grateful for each day. Although Mike is still not at home where he’d like to be and I’d like him to be, he’s still on this earth, this side of heaven, another day together. Each day is a gift.

I’m tired and feeling weary but God keeps blessing me. There is always beauty beyond the ashes. I just can’t let the hard times consume me. I need to keep my faith and trust in God’s plan for Mike and me. I will continue to recognize the things we can easily take for granted, a child’s hug, a dog’s snuggle, a card in the mail, words of encouragement from friends, a child’s giggle and toothless smile, salted/sanded roads to have safe travels, most importantly knowing so many are surrounding us in prayer.

I truly am grateful!


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