Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Perfect timing
Yesterday was June 29th. It marked 5 months ago that Danny passed. Surprisingly it was the first one I got through without feeling like I'd been punched in the gut. Perhaps, that's attributed to being busy with patients during the 6 o'clock hour. Nonetheless, while I'd been mindful of it most of the day it didn't seem to shake me the way it sometimes has in the past.
There's been a family that has been intentional in continuing to lift up our family. They send cards frequently with some great words of encouragement. Last night when I got off work and had finished mowing the yard I came inside to the above card. The inside was just a little note to let us know we were being thought of. How's that for timing on a day that's harder than most?
How long until....
I won't feel like there's a neon sign above our head's that broadcasts we lost our husband/daddy and are grieving? I don't say that to be negative. There are just lots of times that I feel like people look at me like, "there's the one who's husband died recently". Or at the kids like "their dad just died of brain cancer". Do people take pity on my kids because of this or are they just truly empathetic and trying to help? So the question remains how long will we be shadowed by this really crummy life event? Does it ever get to the point that when people look at us they don't see Danny or the fact that he's gone? We deal with this harsh reality multiple times a day. Does public perception ever change? Sometimes, I wish I had the opportunity to talk to Juanita (Danny's mom) about how she did this when Leonard (Danny's dad) died (of brain cancer also) and she had 2 young kids (ages 8 and 11 roughly) to keep life together for. What sort of advice would she have?
Another first - stag wedding experience
This past Saturday I recorded another milestone in my book of first events without Danny. I attended a wedding for one of our paramedics. I'd been hesitant since the day I received the invitation that had "and guest" listed on the envelope. Little dose of reality that it wouldn't be to "Danny and Addie". Leading up to the wedding I wasn't really sure how I felt about it. I wanted to go and knew I should go but I was nervous about how the day would play out and more importantly how my emotions would process through the day. I'm finding even those these "firsts" really stink I can handle them better when I've had time to prepare as opposed to not knowing they were coming.
As I got ready to go that day and did one final check in the mirror it was as if I could feel Danny looking at me. His voice was nearly audible, "You look nice babe.". This was one of the last things he said to me when we'd gotten dressed up to go someplace. Even though I felt alone it was like he was there.
I got to the wedding and was thankfully greeted by co-workers who made sure that I didn't sit by myself. As the ceremony started it donned on me that the pastor conducting the ceremony was the same exact pastor who married Danny and I and also performed Danny's funeral. Welcome to memory lane. I listened to the sweet words of wisdom he gave to the young bride and groom and reflected on what it was like for Danny and I twelve years ago as Rod gave us similar words of guidance and encouragement.
As they recited vows to each other pledging to show their love and devotion in good times and bad, in sickness and health, I couldn't help but get tearful. When you utter those words to the person you're committing your life to you never really think the sickness or bad times will ever hit you. Twelve years ago, giving voice to those same exact words, I never would have thought that eventually I would be exchanging one 'w' word with another - wife to widow.
The ceremony was short and sweet thankfully and we moved on to the reception. The reception was full of typical EMS shenanigans and laughs. I did pretty well until the couple's first dance. I'll never forget Danny and I and getting the opportunity to dance with him. I remember him whispering in my ear that he thought I was beautiful. Those simple words brought tears to my eyes. And so, in watching the bride and groom share their sweet exchange I was reminded again of what once was but no more will be.
As I got ready to go that day and did one final check in the mirror it was as if I could feel Danny looking at me. His voice was nearly audible, "You look nice babe.". This was one of the last things he said to me when we'd gotten dressed up to go someplace. Even though I felt alone it was like he was there.
I got to the wedding and was thankfully greeted by co-workers who made sure that I didn't sit by myself. As the ceremony started it donned on me that the pastor conducting the ceremony was the same exact pastor who married Danny and I and also performed Danny's funeral. Welcome to memory lane. I listened to the sweet words of wisdom he gave to the young bride and groom and reflected on what it was like for Danny and I twelve years ago as Rod gave us similar words of guidance and encouragement.
As they recited vows to each other pledging to show their love and devotion in good times and bad, in sickness and health, I couldn't help but get tearful. When you utter those words to the person you're committing your life to you never really think the sickness or bad times will ever hit you. Twelve years ago, giving voice to those same exact words, I never would have thought that eventually I would be exchanging one 'w' word with another - wife to widow.
The ceremony was short and sweet thankfully and we moved on to the reception. The reception was full of typical EMS shenanigans and laughs. I did pretty well until the couple's first dance. I'll never forget Danny and I and getting the opportunity to dance with him. I remember him whispering in my ear that he thought I was beautiful. Those simple words brought tears to my eyes. And so, in watching the bride and groom share their sweet exchange I was reminded again of what once was but no more will be.
I did manage to enjoy myself that day but must admit I'm glad to have that one in the book of firsts so that I can process the emotion and move forward in healing.
Monday, June 29, 2015
People talk
You just never know what impact you may have had on someone.
Shortly before Danny died I had the opportunity to care for two particular cancer patients that completely touched my heart. Both of them passed just before Danny did. The first was a sweet woman from a world of very little resource. She was being cared for by her significant other. Neither one of them had graduated high school. They didn't quite understand everything that was taking place but they were doing the best that they knew how. Watching them hang on to and care for each other as her disease progressed absolutely broke my heart. I couldn't help but to be drawn to them and want to do whatever I could for them to assist in their journey. Yes, my journey was heartbreaking too. We, however, had a fantastic support team and a peace in knowing it was goodbye for now but not goodbye forever. It was my privilege to offer them whatever support I could.
The second was a sweet man who had been very healthy all of his life. He received a horrible diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. He'd never had any pain so he was surprised to learn how sick he was. By the time he was diagnosed it had already spread and his time on earth was going to be very short. More than once I had the opportunity to care for him in the ED. He was a real inspiration for me. Even facing his diagnosis and death, he was full of positivity and thankfulness. He and his wife and I spent one visit crying together as we discussed possible hospice options for them and what my experience had taught me thus far. I sent him home from the ED for the last time knowing very well that his days were numbered. All I could do was pray for him, his wife and his two grown children. And I did.
Fast forward to just a few weeks ago. I had the opportunity to care for another patient. Somehow they knew the last patient I just described. His wife had told them about their experiences here in the ED and about the nurse that had cared for them and what a difference it had made. This patient of course relayed the information. I couldn't help but to be very touched at this story. This is exactly why I do what I do. I don't necessarily like having to care for the cancer patient and their family as it still hits very close to home. BUT, there's always a reason for it and for the interaction that takes place. Thank goodness we serve a God who is so much bigger than us. I'm thankful that my steps have been orchestrated.
Oh S**t!
Oh yes.....it was a sad day for this mommy when I heard those words come out of my firstborn's mouth. Thankfully, without making a big deal about it we talked about not saying those words and moved on. Another first. (certainly not the last)
Sneak Attack
Most days at this point I do pretty well getting through work without it being a water works display. Then there are days like today. They clip along. It's been a long week and by halfway through the shift I'm already watching the clock. And then it happens completely unexpectedly. I walk down to do a patient intake and find our angel Brenda standing there with the patient. Brenda was the bath aid that came to care for Danny. She was the one who handled him and his sassiness when he really didn't think he needed help. She was the one who always took extra time to talk to the kids and answer their endless questions so it wasn't scary. She was the one who always made sure Danny got the back rub and royal treatment when he couldn't do it for himself. She was the one who came to care for him a matter of hours before he died. She took the time to cut his nails and shave his face. He looked so handsome despite is all and he smelled so good. I crawled up next to him when she was done and just stayed with him after that.
It was so so sweet to see her today. She gave the best hug and instantly we both had tears. I'm so thankful I got to see her but now I'm in a serious battle with myself to hold it together. Those memories are fiercely assaulting my memory. Funny what you try to compartmentalize and just forget about. This patient today is in the same room that Danny was in when we found out that he had a blood clot in his lungs too. Ugh! Maybe one of my co-workers was right. Maybe I do need to find a job away from here in order to truly heal. Working here doesn't ever allow me to get away from any of it. While there may be days that that's comforting, days like today are an immense struggle.
It was so so sweet to see her today. She gave the best hug and instantly we both had tears. I'm so thankful I got to see her but now I'm in a serious battle with myself to hold it together. Those memories are fiercely assaulting my memory. Funny what you try to compartmentalize and just forget about. This patient today is in the same room that Danny was in when we found out that he had a blood clot in his lungs too. Ugh! Maybe one of my co-workers was right. Maybe I do need to find a job away from here in order to truly heal. Working here doesn't ever allow me to get away from any of it. While there may be days that that's comforting, days like today are an immense struggle.
Single Mommin' It
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| Sometimes it feel exactly like this! |
As one of our ED physicians recently told me.... You need a wife! What he meant by that was that I need someone to help me out at home.
Recently after I got home from work and was still folding laundry after 10 at night, I found myself reflecting on what he said. Sometimes it's a real challenge for me to manage to work twelve hour shifts and come home to still run the house after I've spent time being mom. It feels like a never ending race against the clock. Oh wait....trash day is tomorrow and I still need to take the trash out. Well nuts!
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| Those children are SO completely worth it though! |
Teeter Totter
This image has been a real encouragement to me recently. There have been a few days lately that I've had an unbeckoned intense walk down memory lane, enduring some of those memories that are really sad and uncomfortable. Goodness knows our rough days are still winning over our good days but thank God we're not immersed in overwhelming sadness as we were. We find hope in knowing that happier days will come and trust that God will bring it at just the right time. Until then we're learning to really lean on those who continue to reach out and support us. Daddy may be watching us from above now, but there are many angels here on earth still trying to show these kids what love is all about. I am so thankful!
Rec Center Pass
Recently, Danny's boss Dan approached me and asked if Dennis had talked to me recently. (Dennis took over Danny's position.) I told him no that he hadn't. Dan asked if I had a minute. Now if you've been following this blog you know each time Dan approaches me like this it leads to tears. Like I typically do, I told him if he was going to make me cry he had to go away. And like usual, it didn't work.
Dan proceeded to tell me that Danny used to teach CPR for the Rec Center. He'd worked out a deal with them that he would teach and cover the expenses and in return they would give us a family membership for the year. I was already aware of this and had planned to budget for the membership fees to continue being able to go there. Until that day. Dan informed me Dennis is planning to continue on in Danny's footsteps. He's going to teach the CPR and the family membership will remain in our names. I was left deeply humbled and in tears. My HCHC family continues to care for us even 5 months after he is gone.
Daddy Loves You Very Much
Recently there's been lots of pushing of the Build-a-Bears to hear Daddy's voice. Without saying much the kids just grab them and activate the button. Each time I hear it, I find I pause...just to hear his voice again. We've all been missing Danny but especially so surrounding Father's Day.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Father's Day
Our first Father's Day without Danny went better than I anticipated. I was expecting a real struggle for the kids as the realization dawned (sp?) on them. What I found was, it was me that had the hard time. Fortunately for the kids, they're still young enough they don't realize the day is what it is. As an adult though, I'm acutely aware of what Sunday, June 21st is - a day meant to celebrate dads and all they do for their children. I struggled with the in your face reality that these kids will never again get to experience having their daddy here on a day that is meant for him; to celebrate him. Sure, we can send lanterns or balloons to heaven. We can be conscious about remembering him. Physically though, those kids will never spend another Father's Day making breakfast in bed, picking out special gifts or giving him big hugs. And my heart breaks for them.
I'm also beyond thankful for my own dad who has been there for me always but especially in the last 4 years when cancer entered our world. He's done everything he could for me whether it was to repair something that was broken or to hold me and let me cry. He's worked hard (and continues to do so) to help fill the void that Danny left behind for the kids.
While it's impossible to achieve and no one will ever replace Danny, the kids are super blessed to have Papaw, Uncle John and Mr Marc consciously making the effort to see to it that the kids know they are loved and cared for.
Weekend Distraction
Not because I was completely trying to skip over Father's Day and all that meant for my little family, but I was looking for a distraction. We opted to spend Father's Day weekend camping at Sugarbottom. The weather might not have been perfect but we had a great time relaxing and making memories.
Gentle reminder
Sometimes we all need a little reminder of who is in control. This sunset reminded me that the Artist is much bigger than I.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
You ever feel like this?
I really dislike pictures of myself but we all need a good chuckle once in a while. These two images really just capture how I feel some days whether it applies to housework, child rearing or work. We all have those days that things start off perfectly and end....not so perfect. I've had a few of these days lately but am quickly reminded I am not alone even when it feels like I am.
It's A Wrap
Without a doubt baseball stole Danny's heart years ago. He loved his years coaching in Wapello. I was always amazed at the details he could remember about those games years later. When we found out we were expecting our first child and that the baby would be a boy, Danny immediately started dreaming about the future ballplayer he would have. Aidan's initials are ACE and that wasn't an accident. Danny also planned on him being a left handed pitcher. This was the first year that both boys were able to play. I don't know how many games I sat at thinking....if he were only here. First of all he never would have stopped smiling because he would have been so proud of his boys. Secondly, it would have been very hard for him to be an observer and not be part of the coaching dads. Finally, he would be super proud that all 4 of his children have taken a liking to eating sunflower seeds and reasonably expect that by next year they'll all know how to split the shell, eat the seed and spit out the rest without getting it on you. At any rate, this mom is thankful that we have that season in the books. Onward to more summer fun....
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| Aidan |
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| Avery |
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Should I be happy or should I cry?
This past weekend the kids got to spend time with Aunt Jo and Uncle John. They really love those weekends and all they get to do. Saturday night as I was struggling cleaning the office I got a sweet message. Initially I thought it was from Jo as I had shared I was having a hard time. Instead it was Aidan. He simply typed Hi mom. I love you. Nothing big, but a big deal to this mom. I have the best kids! I was happy to get such a sweet message from him but sad that he's getting so big already he can text me.
Thought I was ready
I worked this past weekend so the kids spent the weekend with Aunt Jo. Friday evening after baseball Summer and I flew to Burlington and caught a movie. Some great girl time. I absolutely love our times spent together like this. She is becoming such a beautiful young woman. Saturday I got in a run outside since I had no children here and felt ready to tackle my day. My 12 hours went by relatively quickly. I'd spent all day trying to convince myself it was time to try to tackle sorting through the office. By the time I left that night I was confident I was ready to show it who was boss. Came home, turned on the jam and tried to figure out where in the world to start. Papers everywhere. Danny's locker contents still in boxes. School papers to sort through from the school year. Figure out what information I could need next tax season surrounding Danny's illness and death. Etc., etc. I made good headway. At first. I also made the mistake of reading some of the cards that had been sent and going through some of his medical records. I made the critical error of reading through some of my journal early on. And then I was a sunken mess. Those days of journaling with hope about disease and recovery. We had no idea what was in store for us and our children. I ended up tabling it for the remainder of the night. Honestly, it looks worse now than when I started. Believe it or not though I did make some progress. Hopefully this week I'll make a little more.
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| Look at all the stacked papers. |
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| More stacks of papers. His locker contents under the desk. |
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| Piles of sorting and remembering life in the last while. Ugh! |
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| The blue binder. This held any and all medical records I had. |
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| Maybe a little progress on one bookshelf. |
Being the heavy stinks
I realize I'm not the first to ever be a single parent and in that I'm stating the obvious, but being the heavy all the time when it comes to raising children is draining and just plain stinks sometimes. One of the things I've had the hardest time finding balance in these days is managing to get necessary chores completed while still being the mom my kids deserve and the person I want to be. Lately, I have more days that I wish for a do over than days I feel like I've got this. So recently, I finally asked my kids how they think this should go. I don't want to be the mommy who yells anymore so how do we approach it. Their collective response was put us in time out the first time we don't listen. The second time we don't listen you should spank us. Eek! So Monday we deployed this new rule adaptation. I'm being intentional about staying relaxed and not yelling. I'm also holding them accountable. Thankful to report so far we've only had to deploy a time out. Otherwise, yesterday we did pretty good I think.
Out of my comfort zone
Wednesday of last week I had the opportunity to interview for a different job. Pretty crazy of me to blog about it seeing as how very few people other than those closest to us know I did this. One of our ED doctors is also a family physician with a practice. He is about to open a new practice and is looking for a nurse. No way would I have even considered it, except I really enjoy working with him in the ED. He's a Godly man who was without a doubt called to be a physician and care for others. It doesn't matter whether you're young/old, clean dirty, smart/uneducated - he cares for you the same. That's a hard thing to do in the ED when you see the system abuse that occurs daily.
Nonetheless, my therapist has recommended for a while now that I may need to consider something with more traditional hours so that I am able to offer a more consistent schedule at home for the kids. I have been very anti change. My healthcare start was in EMS. It's where I met Danny. I love what I do now. No two days are the same in the ED. I have the opportunity to serve and make a difference every day. You don't always hear thank you but when you do, the tough moments are quickly erased. I've been at Henry County Health Center for nearly 15 years. They helped us tremendously through Danny's illness and continue to support me even now. I have a deep sense of loyalty to them and I love my work family.
Changing jobs now, would mean a complete life change for us. The Eversmeyer family doesn't seem to ever do anything the easy way. My trainer told me the other day the 3 most stressful things a person can go through are death - job change - moving. So why not go for 2:3 right?!
I loved the people I interviewed with though as well. They were kind and truly work to foster an atmosphere that is positive and patient centered. So for now, I'm leaving it all in God's hands. I'm believing that He's going to make the choice an obvious one for us so that there's no doubt. Never more have I wished to have a partner to bounce this off of as it feels like an enormous decision to make for the 5 of us (Summer included). We'll see what's in store!
Nonetheless, my therapist has recommended for a while now that I may need to consider something with more traditional hours so that I am able to offer a more consistent schedule at home for the kids. I have been very anti change. My healthcare start was in EMS. It's where I met Danny. I love what I do now. No two days are the same in the ED. I have the opportunity to serve and make a difference every day. You don't always hear thank you but when you do, the tough moments are quickly erased. I've been at Henry County Health Center for nearly 15 years. They helped us tremendously through Danny's illness and continue to support me even now. I have a deep sense of loyalty to them and I love my work family.
Changing jobs now, would mean a complete life change for us. The Eversmeyer family doesn't seem to ever do anything the easy way. My trainer told me the other day the 3 most stressful things a person can go through are death - job change - moving. So why not go for 2:3 right?!
I loved the people I interviewed with though as well. They were kind and truly work to foster an atmosphere that is positive and patient centered. So for now, I'm leaving it all in God's hands. I'm believing that He's going to make the choice an obvious one for us so that there's no doubt. Never more have I wished to have a partner to bounce this off of as it feels like an enormous decision to make for the 5 of us (Summer included). We'll see what's in store!
Wapello Fire Does It Again
A week ago today the kids and I joined Wapello Fire at the end of their fire meeting. The kids and I had the opportunity to see where Daddy and Grandpa Leonard got their start in caring for others. Grandpa Leonard served on the department for roughly 7 years before he succumbed to his brain tumor. Daddy had memories of joining his daddy at the fire department and always looked up to him for that. What a better way to feel close to your dad than by following in his footsteps. So Danny joined the fire department at a young age. There are some still serving who had served with Leonard and Danny both. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing the various stories about both of them. We learned that Danny was very ornery and outspoken even in his 20s. Hard to believe right?!
The real reason we went to their meeting was because they had something to present the kids. At Danny's funeral the department had a helmet made in his honor. That helmet sat on display at his visitation. As you can imagine, the boys couldn't wait to try it on when all was said and done. They loved wearing that helmet just like Daddy used to. I had taken a picture and shared it with Eric Small. This man has been absolutely amazing. He's got the purest heart and kindest words of most people I'm blessed to know. He's done more than anyone could ask for in making sure Danny's been honored. He organized his benefit in March 2012. He assured that Danny got to go to the department Christmas party this last Christmas. They came to get Danny in one of the trucks with lights and sirens. If only all of you could've seen his face. It was like a kid about to open his most favorite gift on Christmas Day. He spoke at Danny's funeral and has continued to check in on the kids and I.
Well, when I sent Eric that picture it got his wheels turning. He contacted their supplier and told them our story. They made 4 replica helmets so that each of our children could have one to remember Daddy by. The night Eric contacted me about this I couldn't see my screen by the time I was done reading his short message. This gesture touches our family in ways we'll never be able to truly describe with words.
For the kids this night was topped off by a ride in the fire truck of their choice to get ice cream! They were also invited to come ride in the truck in the parade at Chief Wapello Days. They can't wait!!
The real reason we went to their meeting was because they had something to present the kids. At Danny's funeral the department had a helmet made in his honor. That helmet sat on display at his visitation. As you can imagine, the boys couldn't wait to try it on when all was said and done. They loved wearing that helmet just like Daddy used to. I had taken a picture and shared it with Eric Small. This man has been absolutely amazing. He's got the purest heart and kindest words of most people I'm blessed to know. He's done more than anyone could ask for in making sure Danny's been honored. He organized his benefit in March 2012. He assured that Danny got to go to the department Christmas party this last Christmas. They came to get Danny in one of the trucks with lights and sirens. If only all of you could've seen his face. It was like a kid about to open his most favorite gift on Christmas Day. He spoke at Danny's funeral and has continued to check in on the kids and I.
Well, when I sent Eric that picture it got his wheels turning. He contacted their supplier and told them our story. They made 4 replica helmets so that each of our children could have one to remember Daddy by. The night Eric contacted me about this I couldn't see my screen by the time I was done reading his short message. This gesture touches our family in ways we'll never be able to truly describe with words.
For the kids this night was topped off by a ride in the fire truck of their choice to get ice cream! They were also invited to come ride in the truck in the parade at Chief Wapello Days. They can't wait!!
Monday, June 8, 2015
I'm sad!
Tonight I was the lucky mom that got to snuggle Ainsley in one arm and Avery in the other. We were all 4 reflecting on the awesome day we'd had. Avery had been noticeably quiet today. Enough so that a couple of party goers came to me and said something. People who aren't experiencing grief or getting an up close view to what that grief looks like struggle with watching the ugly reality of what it's like to have your daddy ripped away from you at age 5. He was only 2 when Danny was diagnosed. Avery doesn't remember his daddy being healthy but he does remember his dad. Tonight as we were snuggling he looked up at me and said, "I'm sad I miss daddy.". I hugged him tight and acknowledged how he was feeling. Avery went on to tell me he was embarrassed. When asked why he quickly responded because he doesn't have a dad anymore. Everyone at the party today had a dad. All his classmates at school have a dad. He was the only child who was fatherless. And sometimes kids made fun of him because his dad was dead. This mom's heart broke for him in that moment. I highly doubt Mrs. Scudder would have ever allowed any child to talk down to Avery about his daddy. She kept pretty close tabs on him through this process. Nevertheless though, tonight Avery was feeling an enormous void from where his daddy should be.
These are the days that I experience the entire gamut of grief stages. It makes me really ticked off that cancer would pick our family to destroy. It's one thing to lose a spouse and have to figure out life. These kids don't deserve that empty void though! Innocent lives have been forever changed. Just as quickly as the anger hits though I move through it. We're not the first family to be in this scenario. Sadly we won't be the last either. We're blessed to have a great support system and a God that continues to show us just how much He's taking care of us.
Tonight was tough though. If you're a man reading this or you have a husband who is remotely close to our family, do me a favor and high five or hug that little man the next time you see him. Help me help him to see that even though Daddy is gone from us and watching from above, that there are lots of men who are willing to step it up and buffer that void.
Princess Party
Our little family was lucky enough to spend time with family and might as well be family celebrating Princess Ainsleys birthday. It was wonderful to be surrounded by laughter. I found I spent time reflecting on Danny and celebrating her birthday last year. He bought a horse that was a real pain to put together. But they laughed their way through it. For whatever reason I find myself still including something in the party in remembrance if him. I don't broadcast it or even draw attention to it. Mostly it's just for me. I made a jello salad that he loved. It was the only thing he would eat in the last couple of weeks he was living. I guess for me it sort of makes me feel like he was still included. Wonder what my therapist would say about that? :)
Ainsley had a great party and loved being spoiled with gifts and girly things for a change. She got lots of princess stuff and some new clothes. She got a pair of play heels that she loves clomping around the house in. "I just like you mommy!" That girl sure melts my heart.
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| Princess cupcakes courtesy of Aunt Kara! |
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| Embarrassed by everyone singing to her! |
Friday, June 5, 2015
I'm fuuh-ree! (three)
This sweet angel turned 3 yesterday. God sure knew what He was doing giving us such a precious little girl. Danny only knew we were expecting our third child for 4 days before his first seizure which would lead to his diagnosis. The pregnancy was a challenge for him as he wasn't sure he wanted to connect because in his mind it would just be harder in the end
if they had bonded. Thankfully they bonded quite a little bit in the last few months of Danny's life here on earth. Her middle name is Faith purely because faith is what has sustained us all in this journey. She's funny and witty and keeps us on our toes. She's the one who had the least time with her Daddy and while it will be tough for her memories to sustain of him, she undoubtedly is the one most like him. Funny how God works.
if they had bonded. Thankfully they bonded quite a little bit in the last few months of Danny's life here on earth. Her middle name is Faith purely because faith is what has sustained us all in this journey. She's funny and witty and keeps us on our toes. She's the one who had the least time with her Daddy and while it will be tough for her memories to sustain of him, she undoubtedly is the one most like him. Funny how God works.
Left without words
Two instances recently that my kids have made for awkward moments with others. Recently, I blogged about the openness we share in this house in making comments or asking questions where Daddy is concerned. I love that atmosphere we've created despite the times that it's an uncomfortable conversation. I wouldn't change it for a minute. The challenge sometimes is that they're not able to filter whom it's appropriate to be open with and whom they should dial it back with. Thus some adults get left in a tough spot on occasion.
The first was just this last weekend when we went on a maiden voyage with our new camper. Spontaneously, my brother and his family as well as my parents were able to join us. It made for a great weekend of family memories despite the cooler temps. Because it was so cool we went through plenty of firewood. There was a time that Aidan opted to ride with Andrew and Kara as they went to get more wood. We've had a camping trip planned for some time over Father's Day weekend. My intention was that we'd be out of the home and not focused on the fact that our Daddy would be spending his first Father's Day in heaven and not with us. So the kids and I have talked about this being planned but I'd not mentioned the reason behind it to them. I'm not trying to skip over or ignore the holiday. At the same time, I'm not trying to draw attention to it either.
Apparently, while they were in the car the subject matter swung to the upcoming celebration. Aidan very bluntly told them both, "I don't have a dad.". Andrew got quiet as that information sank in while Aunt Kara tried to offer reassurance that Papaw and Uncle Andrew would be there. Aidan wasn't having it and reiterated what he'd just said repeatedly, "but I don't have a dad anymore." Defeated, Kara quieted as well. Neither one of them knew what to say or had the right words. Aidan was right. His dad is gone. What started out as a simple way to make conversation ended up leaving a pretty big impact on two grown adults.
This interaction made for interesting and necessary conversation as we hauled the camper back to our home. I listened to Avery and Aidan's interaction as Aidan started to talk about it. It gave me the opportunity to remind all 3 of the littles that they very much still have a daddy. He's just watching us from heaven now. We also had the opportunity to start discussion on how they would like to celebrate Father's Day this year. They bantered some ideas back and forth before we got home. Obviously, this Father's Day is going to be a little tough on all the kids and I.
Yesterday, there was a contractor here. Things are starting to look up a bit in this house recently. Our sewer is completely fixed now. The concrete just was re-poured in the last few days. I received a quote on some back yard work that needs done. Yesterday they started to install our new furnace and air conditioner, (We've been without a furnace for a good number of weeks now.) And this contractor was here to look at some indoor projects that need more than I can do. These days my kiddos like to be right in the middle of all the action and him being here was no different. Ainsley, in all her cuteness, blurts out to him, "My daddy in heaben." Without missing a beat this sweet guy replied to her, "He is? That lucky guy!" She just simply nodded her head in agreement and said, "yeah!" Conversation over. What she doesn't realize it that that contractor lost a parent at a young age as well.
See what I mean? Steps orchestrated by a bigger power than us.
The first was just this last weekend when we went on a maiden voyage with our new camper. Spontaneously, my brother and his family as well as my parents were able to join us. It made for a great weekend of family memories despite the cooler temps. Because it was so cool we went through plenty of firewood. There was a time that Aidan opted to ride with Andrew and Kara as they went to get more wood. We've had a camping trip planned for some time over Father's Day weekend. My intention was that we'd be out of the home and not focused on the fact that our Daddy would be spending his first Father's Day in heaven and not with us. So the kids and I have talked about this being planned but I'd not mentioned the reason behind it to them. I'm not trying to skip over or ignore the holiday. At the same time, I'm not trying to draw attention to it either.
Apparently, while they were in the car the subject matter swung to the upcoming celebration. Aidan very bluntly told them both, "I don't have a dad.". Andrew got quiet as that information sank in while Aunt Kara tried to offer reassurance that Papaw and Uncle Andrew would be there. Aidan wasn't having it and reiterated what he'd just said repeatedly, "but I don't have a dad anymore." Defeated, Kara quieted as well. Neither one of them knew what to say or had the right words. Aidan was right. His dad is gone. What started out as a simple way to make conversation ended up leaving a pretty big impact on two grown adults.
This interaction made for interesting and necessary conversation as we hauled the camper back to our home. I listened to Avery and Aidan's interaction as Aidan started to talk about it. It gave me the opportunity to remind all 3 of the littles that they very much still have a daddy. He's just watching us from heaven now. We also had the opportunity to start discussion on how they would like to celebrate Father's Day this year. They bantered some ideas back and forth before we got home. Obviously, this Father's Day is going to be a little tough on all the kids and I.
Yesterday, there was a contractor here. Things are starting to look up a bit in this house recently. Our sewer is completely fixed now. The concrete just was re-poured in the last few days. I received a quote on some back yard work that needs done. Yesterday they started to install our new furnace and air conditioner, (We've been without a furnace for a good number of weeks now.) And this contractor was here to look at some indoor projects that need more than I can do. These days my kiddos like to be right in the middle of all the action and him being here was no different. Ainsley, in all her cuteness, blurts out to him, "My daddy in heaben." Without missing a beat this sweet guy replied to her, "He is? That lucky guy!" She just simply nodded her head in agreement and said, "yeah!" Conversation over. What she doesn't realize it that that contractor lost a parent at a young age as well.
See what I mean? Steps orchestrated by a bigger power than us.
A little bit of happy!
I don't often re-read through my posts. It's a great outlet for me to put my emotions down and then move on. So by re-reading them I feel like I'm reliving it if you will. It doesn't always feel like the healthy choice. But this morning I did just that. Now that the weather is nice and ball season is in full swing, I'm having a difficult time getting to my blog as often as I'd like. Admittedly, there are some nights I pick it up and find my eyes are closing and my fingers just hover over the keys. You know how it goes. We've all been there. I noticed my last few posts were during a week span of complete struggle for me. While there was complete truth in all of those posts, I feel like I've painted a picture of doom and gloom. An Eeyore of whoa is me! Not all days are horribly sad. We do have some days of happy and although we battle with guilt of finding happy we know that Danny would want that for us. He would never desire for us to sit around and be sad forever.
Each day we're faced with a choice. We can choose to be stuck in our grief or we can choose to count our blessings and put one foot in front of the other and move forward (even when it feels like the progress is at a snails pace). When the latter choice is consciously made, I am amazed at how clearly God highlights my blessings. No, not all days are easy. Our tough days honestly still outnumber our great days. But the day is coming when it will be the exact opposite and our happy days will be multiplied. In the meantime, we continue to learn and grow. Thank you for joining us and walking beside us in this journey because without the support of our friends and family this struggle would feel unbearable.
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