Happy Birthday "Justin Time for Christmas"

It is hard to believe that 19 years ago today I was on my way to the hospital to deliver Justin. The time has flown by. I remember the day I found out I was pregnant. 17 and scared. My parents, even though they were disappointed in me, loved me anyway. In fact they loved my husband to be as well and allowed us to live with them. I have the greatest parents in the whole world. I don't know what I would have done without them helping me during that time of my life.

Here we are 19 years later, my little baby boy has grown into a wonderful young man. He is gorgeous on the inside and gorgeous on the outside. He has been through alot in his 19 years but has shown great strength through it all. He could have chosen different roads enlight of his circumstances, but he didn't. He has taken the right path. I am very proud of the man he is becoming.

I am hoping that as the teenage years come to an end this year, I'll get him back. Those of you with teenagers know what I am referring to! He will want to spend time with me! He won't think I am stupid anymore! He will want to sit down and eat dinner with us! He won't roll his eyes! Oh well, I can dream can't I? Lol. Gotta love the teenagers. So full of emotion. The teenage years are a roller coaster. One almost down and 4 more to go!

Happy Birthday Justin. I thank God that even though you came into my life at a time that was not normal for most, it was perfect for me. I am honored that God chose me to be your mother. We have had our ups and downs but one thing has stayed the same... I have loved you always and will continue to love you no matter what. Have a wonderful day and I wish you Peace, Love and Happiness for this New Year.

Love,
Maureen aka Mommy

The true meaning of Christmas

We are enjoying this Christmas season. We are spending less and having less stress. Our focus has been on the sights and sounds and the true meaning of Christmas. Our home is decorated from inside to outside. The kids love turning on the lights at night. We have taken several drives around town viewing Christmas lights which is one of my favorite holiday activities. Last weekend we attended the Walk through Bethlehem. That by far is our favorite tradition. It wouldn't be Christmas if we didn't go says Ashlyn -15. Even though we waited 3 1/2 hours in line, it was worth it. Nothing says Christmas like going back in time to the first Christmas and seeing the Baby Jesus! I can't forget about the Christmas cookies we will be baking on Saturday.

So, we have filled our Holiday with many fun activities with a few more things on our agenda. But yesterday when Lauren-8 and Dylan-6 had an opportunity to visit Santa at the mall, my eyes filled with tears when I heard Santa talk to my children. After they told him what they wanted to receive, he proceeded to tell them that the true meaning of Christmas was not the gifts that he will bring them, but it is about God and love and loving the people around you. I have never heard a Santa talk that way and it really was so nice.

Merry Christmas,
Maureen

A Mother's Prayer: Help me to Play Lord!

Lord, I know that a child's work is to play. So help me to be quick to stop what I am doing to play with the kids whenever they say "Play with me Mommy".

Help me not to hear those words as interruptions; rather, help me to hear them as a special invitation into their world. I should feel honored that they want to take me there.

While we are playing, Lord help me to realize that at no other time will my children be this receptive to me. Help me to seize these chances to teach them important things. Help me to use these opportunities to affirm my kid's importance to me, our family and most of all to you. Amen

As soon as we feasted our eyes on our squinty-eyed babies in the delivery room, they and we began the slow, but quick process of separating. A quote from one of my favorite books "Celebrate Home".

I know that my time with kids is a gift. I am doing my best to celebrate each day, make special memories for my kids and just soak up these precious moments. As Christmas draws close, I hope to enjoy all the magic my kids will bring to our home. I love seeing their eyes light up and the hearing the excitement in their voices. Take a moment, stop whatever it is you are doing and play with your kids, talk with your kids, and snuggle with them. There will be a day when they are too big to play, or snuggle and as they approach the teens years talking with them might be a challenge as well lol!


Enjoying my children,
Maureen