A List…
1. I took this picture last week at the Katy Mills Play Place. It was Nate’s first time here, which is just about as crazy as saying it’s his first time to see sunshine or taste chocolate. Here’s the deal, when Catie was two, she was a play place aficionado. As a new mama, I was on the go-go-go! We did it all…Gymboree! Mommy and Me classes! Playdates! And, oh my goodness, did we do those mall play places. I would walk around the mall for exercise (and shopping, obviously), and she would eat snacks in her stroller until the big treat of going to the PLAYPLACE! We became good friends with the security guards and other moms. I nursed twins, changed diapers, and climbed the equipment with all three kids. Sam took his first steps at the Memorial City Mall play place. So, I felt guilt mixed with wonder when I realized Nate had never been to a mall play place before. I shop online now, and Nate just have the time for wandering around the mall. I also don’t need to chat with other new moms like I did. All that said, Nate thought climbing on that fake tree was the coolest thing he’d ever seen. Take it while you can, buddy. Today it’s back to the playroom and all those siblings.
2. Wow. Last week was a terrible week. I wasn’t sick. None of the kids had the flu or even croup. No earth-shattering bad news or major disappointments. Instead it was one of those weeks when I seemed annoying, even to myself. Especially to everyone else. Have you ever experienced this? Or is it just me? Friends I’m normally close were distant. People I love casually pointed out my flaws. More than once I was in a group conversation and something I said rubbed everyone the wrong way–and then I spent HOURS obsessing over why. The more needy I got for approval and love, the more people treated me like I was a needy parasite who needed approval. Ugh. Please tell me you’ve also felt like this. The awkwardness and frustration of last week is still stinging today.
3. BUT last week I also prayed constantly. Feeling so hurt opened my heart up God’s Word and my obvious need for Him. I almost feel like comparing my last week to Joseph’s life. You know how in Genesis 50:20, he says to his brothers, “You intended to harm me,B)’> it for good
