Perspective

Last night Edwin and I decided to attend a meeting at the school. When we got into the car to go home, Edwin tried to start it.....but nothing happened. I thought he was just playing around, but then he tried several other times to start the car. Still nothing. We couldn't leave our car at the medical center and Edwin thought he left the cell phone at home so we decided to push start it. Thankfully we were able to get things started and drive home. Edwin dropped me off to get Grace, then he and a friend went to the autopart store to get a new battery.

In the end, all was well.

Edwin has apologized several times for the car not working last night. He didn't like that we were in a bind, in the evening, and a week away from baby's due date. All I have to say is....

I'm glad it happened when it did!!

1. We were together
2. It was in the evening so there were no cars and no traffic to fight while pushing the car
3. Grace was safe with a friend
4. I wasn't in labor
5. I wasn't alone in the hot sun with a baby
6. No one was stranded.... it just took a little longer to get home is all
7. The rain stopped while we were outside
8. The problem was relatively cheap and easy to fix
9. No SCARY towtruck driver needed!!! (I think that should count as two things:)

Things really could have been a lot worse. If we are going to have car problems then last night was a good way to have them. Besides, it's the first problem we have had in the three and a half years we have been married.... I guess it was our turn.

It really is all about perspective!

Insights on Service

"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in." Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom

The other day I was feeling a little confused when talking to a friend. She expressed how grateful she was to another person for helping her during a difficult time in her life. I was glad that she received some help because although I had offered my service numerous times she always told me she was "just fine." When all was over she was grateful to the individuals who had given their time and efforts to help her. I felt I had missed out on an opportunity to really be a friend to a woman I admired.

A few days later a friend of mine filled my freezer with precooked homemade dinners. Another friend called to bring me dinner, not because baby had arrived, but simply because she remembered how tired she was during the final weeks of her pregnancy. Someone else offered to watch Grace during my doctor visit. Each time a helping hand was extended my initial thought was to decline politely, "you really shouldn't have made me frozen dinners," "thanks for offering, but I'll be alright," or "that was very thoughtful, thanks for thinking of me, but we are fine, really." My words decline the invitation while my mind and heart are screaming "THANK YOU!!! HOW DID YOU KNOW I REALLY NEEDED A BREAK THIS WEEK?!?"

Why is it that I (like my friend) struggle to accept the help offered to me? Am I so proud that I can't admit I too have tough days and could use a little "pick me up"? Instead of turning my back to a generous friend, I find myself saying "thank you." Because in the end the real question should be.....

"WHO AM I TO DECLINE ANYONE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FULFILL THEIR HEART'S DESIRES BY SERVING SOMEONE TODAY?"

Songs from the Heart

Grace is our little singer. The other night it was pretty late and we had not eaten yet. We decided to grab some hamburgers, but it was still about 10 minutes before we reached our local burger joint. In the meantime, Grace started whining for a "ham-ger". I quickly asked her to sing me a song to distract herself. After a minute or so her "la, la, la's" turned in to "ham-ger, ham-ger, ham-ger." Edwin's new favorite game is to pick a random word and ask Grace to sing a song about it. She gets a serious look on her face and then breaks into song. "Ode to pickle" is a good one too!

"Pogie Mommy"

With baby due any day now I thought I'd better cut my hair because I know it'll be at least 3 months before I do it again. Although I love short, textured, full of life and color hair, alas, I am out voted on my own hair styles in this house. Edwin is a die hard for long, natural, straight hair. Grace is attached to.....PONYTAILS!!! While trying to sport new hairdos I found myself fighting with Grace over my hair. If I wear it down.....she grabs a fist full and yells "POGIE!!" If I wear it up she beats my head and tears at any loose strands yelling.... "POGIE!!!" Since I'm out numbered with my choice of hairstyles I'll have to settle for a classic ponytail! Oh well, those I love most love me with a ponytail. What a simple thing I can do to make someone content with life!!!

Deep Sea Fishing

Edwin had the opportunity to go Deep Sea Fishing with his good buddy John. My only request was that they bring home some fresh fish for Mother's Day. Good thing they were successful!!! What a tasty treat for this pregnant mom! I'm glad they had a great time on the boat.

Weekend Review

We took our annual trip to the peach orchard this weekend. Grace had a great time playing with the fallen peaches in the sand. Edwin and I enjoyed the country drive. It's nice to get away from the city every now and again.

Song of the day:
She's Everything by Brad Paisley

Lyrics http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/bradpaisley/sheseverything.html

Statement of the Weekend: "You know you are driving too close when you have to turn on your wipers because the car in front of you used their washer fluid." Edwin 5/18/2007

We joined the BLOGGERS CLUB!!!

In an attempt to keep in touch with friends and family more frequently, I've decided to start blogging. Edwin is a little skeptical about my true dedication to this.....so the bet is on!!! Hopefully this won't be a fleeting thing, but only time will tell.

Grace teaches me so much about life..... "If I can't have it my way I'll make the best with what I have!"