Catch Up

Well, it has been awhile, so thought I'd say something. We have been in the midst of the August rush of b-days. Birthdays are interesting, and ever changing. It is odd to have adult children, with children, and still have minor children at home. The challenge of equality, and fairness is one that has became most difficult for us all. The one thing I have definitely concluded, is, no matter how hard I try, or how much fretting I do about it, all things will not EVER seem fair to everyone. Maybe they're not, but as parents you always try to do your best. I know that I love my children beyond words, and that up til now, I have put their well being and happiness before my own. That is neither healthy, nor productive. Besides, it is like walking on a treadmill, going nowhere, or, one step forward, two steps back. You just can't win. It is a challenge that is not meant to be won. As I reflect on my own life as a young wife and mother, there were so many painful lessons I had to learn, and so many perceived injustices to push through. It certainly makes sense to me now. I can appreciate the position of various family members and friends. I think it is natural, as a parent, to some how shelter our children from the hardships we endured, but eventually we figure out that it is not always in their best interests to do so. Plus, it takes energy and sacrifice that we often don't have, to give. In the end, everyones loses in one way or another. 

 So, in closing I would say this, if we love our family with all our hearts, and are willing to make the tough decisions without regret, knowing that it is our best, there should be no reason for guilt, or shame. And whoever discovered that we have to love, and take care of ourselves first, is very right. It is hard to be a loving parent if you allow yourself to be physically and/or emotionally drained in the process. 

They're Back!

Everyone made it home safe, and somewhat sound. I went to the airport to greet them, and get some much needed hugs. Fatigue and lost luggage had everyone a bit testy, but glad to be back in smoldering Arizona. I know that I couldn't be happier to have them back! Mom

So Lonley

Well, my family finally returns to me tonight! I am so excited. Distance really does make the heart grow stronger. I haven't had the difficulty that comes with being a wife and mother, just the pleasant ponderings of the husband, children, and grandbabies that I love so dearly. Even though I have always known that nothing can come close to the love a mother feels for her child, it has been especially apparent to me this past week. We love our children, every single one, very intensely, every second of every day, for their entire lives. It may be one of the greatest gifts that out Father in heaven gives us. I now know that the realization of that fact is why I have felt the loss of my own mother in such an enormous way. As is a natural part of life, the one person in this mortal life that loved me in that unique way, is now gone from this life on earth. Having this realization has somehow helped me to have a better co-exsistance with my grief. Though still painful, it makes some sort of sense to me now. I hope that we can all come to have a better recognition of this gift. It can at times cause us inconvenience, especially for teenagers and adult children, but understanding that it all comes from that unparalleled love might just help us through some of our frustration.  Mom 

I'm Still Here!

Well, woe is me. I didn't end up getting to go to Hawaii at all. I kept hoping that I would get well enough, even spent 10 hours in the emergency room Friday, but to no avail. It just wasn't meant to be this time. Lucky for me, Hawaii isn't going anywhere. I will spend the week here alone, gaining a new appreciation for my family. I hope they have a wonderful time, and that the water is clear!  Ren

Life is good?

Sure it is, but just not for me right now. I have been sick (in a VERY unpleasant intestinal way) and couldn't leave for Hawaii this morning. Every moment I have that I think I might be getting better, is followed by long episodes that are worse that ever! I really can't remember the last time I felt this sick. How is that for timing? Now I just hope to get down there at all. Anyway, just thought I'd take a few minutes to moan.    Ren

MIa Pic

Just so everyone knows, Mia is my great niece. Her Nana is my sister, Debbie, and her mommy is my niece, Brandy. She is such an adorable, tiny little girl. She was only 5'10" when she was born back in April. It was a tough pregnancy for Brandy, and her healthy birth has been such a blessing.

Survived

Well, I survived my sleep study. I still have the goop spots in my hair, but I am home, and it is over! Now I just have to see if I can manage to learn how to sleep with a mask thing over my nose that forces air up my nostrils all night. Knowing what we need to do, and what is best for us, doesn't always equate to compliance. At least, not with me. If it did, I'd be thin, healthy, and much more wise.  I am sure that if I haven't learned by now, I will continue to learn everything the hard way. 

 Anyway, hope life is treating everyone else well! Have a good one,  Mom

"The Last Lecture"

I was just reading my morning online news, and saw that Randy Pausch (The Last Lecture) has lost his battle with cancer. If you haven't seen his lecture, or read the book, I can tell you that it is just totally inspiring. I think the world was a better place for having him in it. He was only 47 years old. I have my own reasons for hating cancer, and I hope we all pray for there to be a cure found in the near future. It's reign of terror has lasted long enough. Thanks!  Ren 

   

Hi y'all!

I know. Those annoying hillbilly roots of mine. I'm actually rather fond of them. Anyway, wanted to let everyone know we're alive! We are looking forward to our fast approaching trip to Hawaii! It will be so nice to visit the ocean again. I just pray that everyone is well, and completely healthy for the trip. If not, where better to recover. Being sick in South Maui is better than being well here in scorching AZ. 

 I have to go have another sleep study tomorrow night (boo hoo). That's what I get for being a non-compliant CPAP user. It isn't a big deal, just one of those boring, time consuming things that one would rather not have to mess with. At least I'll have it done, and out of the way. It really does stink to get old. Then again, God compensates by giving us gifts like grandchildren, so I guess it is worth it!

 Good-bye for now, and Glod Bless!!!    

                                                                   Ren

Check out my Slide Show!

Update July 19th

Howdy Y'all!

 Just a few words for those few brave enough to check on us.

We have survived the reality of our 5th child turning 17. Shelli is obviously a baby no more(although all my children have had it made perfectly clear that they will be my babies, always.)She received a camera for her b-day, and is all set for digital photog at Mountain View this year. 

 Everyone else is doing great. No illness or broken bones to report. I guess the only one close to that would be little Klayton, who, despite being a wee infant, insists on walking. He started at about 71/2 months, and has gotten stronger at it everyday. He is now just over 8 months, and runs. Needless to say, there are occasional trips, head bumps, and face plants. We can't keep up with him, and we forget that he is still a baby. He wants to keep up with cousin Jax. Don't we all. Soon, Ryker will be the one chasing them.

 Anyway, aside from being very hot, life is good and prosperous and the Curtis home. We bask in the love, and company of our beloved, growing family, and give much thanks daily for how richly blessed we are for each and every member of it, and the unique, and individual gifts they bring to us!           Nana Curtis