So, I feel like I should have something profound to write after such a long lapse; however, here I am with so little to say. My friends are thinking that they wish I had so little to say when I am in their company. HAH

Let's try this... Lessons from a vacation:

• Vacation brings out the best and worst in our family (and I think society as a whole, really). Children who normally argue over the simplest of situations are extending graces towards one another. There is a lot of time for snuggles on the couch, the beach, and carrying a sleeping, content four-year-old for miles on end. On the other hand, driving straight through or staying up late playing games or watching fireworks, pushes people past limits of kindness. Listening to parents (in "The Happiest Place on Earth") threaten to "yank your sorry butt out of this Dumbo line" and yell "Why do you have to act stupid like your grandma?" made me think they had somehow lost the point at being at Disney. I found myself, though, telling a child that if he didn't eat some protein for breakfast he wouldn't be able to ride rides. Hmmm... low moment on the vacation.
• Going to the beach is more fun than I thought it would be. I grew up on the beaches of California but still feel grossed out by spending so much time there as a family. Sand in too many places. Children who think rolling in sand is the most fun activity ever just make me cringe. I have to say, though, getting up each morning and heading to the beach was so relaxing and fun. I spent time reading, people-watching, and playing. Those who know me, know sitting around doing nothing is not my strong suit, but I bought into it.

• Seeing Kate's face at Disney World made the trip so great. I cried more than once seeing her sweet smile. She was so enjoyable on this trip. We are starting to discover more of her personality.

• William can do anything he puts his mind to... He can make me smile in an instant. He can change the mood in our entire family- positively or negatively. The kid can do anything athletic! He is growing up faster than I ever thought possible!

• I realized the downfall of the "middle child." Allie is my sweet, content, helpful child. She is just easy-going. I realized, though, that it becomes easy to expect her to sacrifice, flex, or be easy going even when she doesn't feel like it. I was taught a lesson to take time to make sure she feels special, unique, and loved. She is one great kid!

Well, I think those are all of my lessons for the trip! Nothing profound but loads of fun.

A tough one...

This has been a tough one! My heart is so heavy with the weight of what is happening in Haiti. I think of friends there. I think of their needs. I think of the fight the Haitians have in them to survive!

Yesterday marked the first and last time I became a mom. My William, who was born at week 29, was born on January 13, 1999. My Kate, who was born at week 32, was born on January 13, 2006. Want to talk about fight? William in particular had to fight to live. I reflect on those days after his birth as the worst time in my life. I remember the doctor's words, "If your son survives this, he will have to fight. If he fights to survive, he will always be a fighter."

Those of you who know my William, boy, is he a fighter! Life has not been easy for him, and he usually chooses the difficult path. Isn't he a blessing, though? I just love that kid's smile and laugh.

When I think of the devastation that has hit Haiti, I think of my William. Haiti is a country of fighters! They are tenacious! And, like my William, they have tender hearts with a lot of love.

As I have watched the horrific images of people pulling others from the rubble, people carrying bodies down the street, and of the loss, I am heartbroken for their pain. My hope is that at the end of this pain, is a refining in their spirits that will bring glory to God. Much like I pray that God has big plans for William and that his sufferings were times of refining.