It is the end of October already and it seems like life is rolling by at lightning speed.
Lisa's cross country was fantastic. Except she didn't like the practices...they were in the afternoon and it was pretty hot...understandable. The first meet was not good. She ran an 8 minute mile then she had a meltdown. The rest went remarkably well. The district meet was this past Saturday and she came in 5th place out of 70 girls. She is a 5th grader on the 8th grade team. Her team placed 2nd for district. We are so proud of her and of the team. One of the neatest moments came before the this last meet. Lisa was in the crowd of girls getting ready to run and I glanced over and there she was squatting down, head bent, hands folded. It looked like she was praying. After the race she mentioned how she prayed before the race. Yay God!! I am so glad to witness what she did in the midst of everybody.
Katie's soccer team has tied 2 games and lost all of the others. She is still having fun at the games, but she also does not like the practices. This is where we are learning about teamwork and sacrificing to be on a team. It is not all fun and games, but also a lot work, sweat and a few tears. For soccer it is also about the snack after the game too. :-)
Both girls are doing good in school. A/B's for both. 5th grade is hard but it is to prepare Lisa for middle school next year. WHAT???? Middle School. It seems like just yesterday we were going to MOPS and mother's day out. Now we are wearing training bras and learning to be at home by ourselves. I cannot imagine giving the keys to the car and letting her go, but I know that is not too far away.
So where do I see myself as a mom?
On a fine line:
Of fierce protection from evil and all things bad to letting them experience hurt and consequences.
Of monitoring their friendships and teaching them how to be a good friend and helping them to spot the not so good friendships.
Of experiencing the hurt of when they have been offended by someone and of the painful realization of when they have been the offender.
Of giving a lot of grace and knowing when I am being manipulated.
Of humbling myself when I have lost it--and it does happen from time to time
Of praying, praying, praying.
Of being one with Mike on all things parenting. Not to mention letting the girls know that I love their daddy and see the love and service on a daily basis.
Of making sure that I am right with God everyday, continuing to deepen my walk with Jesus and humbly seeking His grace, mercy and wisdom for this thing called life.
