Single Mom…..

Looking back on my life, THIS is not what I had planned.  Sometimes I wonder if this is NOT what God had planned either.  He did give us a free-will and sometimes that freeness steps outside of what He had desired for our lives.

Life has not been easy for me and my household either.  We don't live in a two parent home, two income family, trips every summer, luxury of eating out whenever, having loving grandparents spoiling the grandkids, or friends who stuck through all the rough parts….  I have been a single mom for most of my children's lives.  I have had to fill in all the parts, mom/dad/nurse/dr/teacher/advisor/and many many more.  Many, many tears have flowed over the years, many set backs, many achievements, many laughs, and many precious moments.  Then God gives you a glimpse of who your children have become….

My daughter amazes me on a daily basis.  She is so talented and creative.  The other day, a situation arose.  We were in a store together, when someone from our past 'spotted' us.  The nicities were given and then a painful question was stabbed at us.  My daughter graciously nodded, smiled, and politely responded.  Then with precision ended the conversation and we were on our way.  O how proud and humble at the same time.  She handled herself like a Godly lady with strong character.

Today was another one of those reflective moments.  My son, my baby, had an interview for a full time fire fighter job.  As my son showered, shaved, and got ready, pride whelmed up inside of me.  How he has gown over the years from playing with fire trucks in the sandbox to wanting to impact his community through the fire department.  He came in and sat on the couch asking for 'pointers' on the interview's dos and don'ts.  As I am explaining to not fidget, not to put hands in pockets, sit up straight, be honest, straightforward, use manners, etc…. I felt so humble in the presence of a grown amazing young man.

In moments such as these, emotions well up…pride, humility, love, joy.  We have the opportunity to have that glimpse of the mighty character that has been built in our children on the treacherous roads we have traveled.  We stand in awe of who they have become because we trusted Him with them.