Thursday, August 31, 2017

I Told Myself I Could Like Him

Just over 3 years ago, we met this little boy and his sister for the very first time.  Jonah was just about 6 years old and Ava was 1 1/2 years old.  We met them because our family was in the process of adopting these young kids.

I will never forget our first meeting. It was slightly awkward.  Jonah was aware of what was going on, but not necessarily happy about it.  Ava, well, she was simply cute. New to walking and oblivious of the life changes that were just ahead.  I left the home they were staying in feeling like I could come to like Jonah pretty quickly.  He had a little spark.  Was healthy and energetic.

We went back a couple days later.  And the visit took a huge turn.  I will never forget the feeling I had.  I didn't just 'think' I could like Jonah.  I loved him with all my heart on the very second time meeting him.  I still tear up remembering the emotion I carried home with me that this little boy would be mine to raise to become a good man one day.

What was it?  For sure it was a God thing.  Jonah had found a place in my heart for his endearing ability to show his love.  It's a regular occurrence that I will enter a room and have him find me for a great big hug.  Followed by a sweet, 'I love you mommy'.

He is up for anything.  Give him an opportunity to play a sport and he will work his butt off to learn it and become better.  He shows huge determination in learning in school and has overcome obstacles I thought he would always be challenged with.  Jonah is liked by his peers and teachers.  He is also the one I can rely on to offer to help me with one task or another.

Happy 9th birthday Jonah!  You are one awesome boy and we love you.  We are excited for what grade 4 will bring you and your second season of hockey!  You are a joy and a blessing to us.  Best wishes for an amazing year.





Love,
Mom

Monday, January 2, 2017

The Science Behind The Snooze

I am a self-proclaimed night owl.  But mornings.... blech!  With all those leaders pushing on getting up early and attacking all the right things; exercise, creative writing, important tasks, I say boo!

Ok, I have tried.  Set the alarm.  Hit snooze a couple times, then reset the alarm for a more acceptable time.  Fail. Fail. Fail!




So last week, Pre-New Years Resolution time, I told myself to get out to the 6:00 am Bootcamp times at the gym.  The first morning, I hit snooze a couple times then was ready to reset the alarm completely.  Only to feel some pride kick in cause I told Jeremy the night before I was getting to the gym early.  So, I got up and to the gym, a few minutes late, but did it.

The next morning session.  Again. Snooze, snooze. Oops.  Reset alarm and miss it!  The third morning. Snooze 1 time.  Then off I went.  My brain said, 'you need more snooze time'.  I said, 'no! I will be late.'  I head downstairs.  See the couch and cozy blanket and tell myself. Ok, 2 more snooze's.  Then... I was late and missed the class and just rode the bike. BORING!

So,  4th morning.  I made myself accountable to getting to the early morning class by offering to pickup my co-worker after the workout and bring her to work.  Smart lady I was.  That morning, my alarm went off, totally wanted to snooze, snooze, reset.  But... I had a commitment, so off I went.  Feeling amazing for it.

I have come to the conclusion that I simply need to set my alarm, giving me time for 3 snoozes, and I am good!  I am mentally ready to get going and tackle the gym.  Ok... maybe that's an overstatement.  But... at least get out the door, make the class on time and feel absolutely amazing afterwards because of it.

How about you?  Early morning bird?  Up and at 'em before the alarm even goes out?  Or... a snoozer?