I Feel the Urge

My labor was coming to an end, with its normal twists and turns. This baby was an answer to numerous private prayers to the Lord, asking Him to somehow bless me with another child to love. After many hours of concentrated breathing efforts, I began to feel a new sensation. It was strong and with it I experienced a fresh “wind in my sails.” I felt the urge to push.

My years as a home schooling Mom are far from over as I still have several in the nest that need training. I never could have imagined when I was young that I would be taking on the role of being my children’s educator. When that idea was first presented to me (unusually by my first child), I laughed thinking surely, I am entirely too inadequate. But my children have defied that reasoning, assuring me almost daily with a 100% approval rating saying, “I am the best teacher ever!”

It all started one morning parked outside the private school I had my son enrolled in. He and I were trying to let go of the hold we had on each other when we both heard the bell ring from my parked car next to the building. That meant another trip to the office for me and another tardy slip for him. Our excuse? We didn’t want to say goodbye. We felt that same way the night before he got married.

While some have enjoyed teaching their children to read, I can think of one child in particular who I could compare it to pulling eye teeth. She refused to sit still, much less show any kind of enjoyment over “couch time.” This one would rather be climbing a tree than sit with me for a few moments of cuddle time and a book. Somehow we got through those years and she is not illiterate. Her favorite book is by far the Song of Solomon. She reads it with incredible insight and her comprehension level is over the top.

I pray for tons of stamina and creativity as I continue on my journey. My 11 year old student takes me by surprise with his long, tender hugs. That’s not something every middle school teacher can brag about. Just when I feel like giving up, he seems to know exactly what I need. When others are counting the days to get away from their students on a “break,” I can honestly say, this child helps me appreciate my role as his teacher.

God knew what He was doing when I was told in my forties that I was pregnant. He knew that this little one would keep my life full and add to it daily with interest. She is the expression of joy and has a very keen sense of observation. I know I am suppose to be watching out for her but expect that she will in fact, be watching out for me. I didn’t understand the spacing between my children for years, but as the nest begins to empty, I see God’s grace and mercy through her toward me as a mother. I was never meant to be without one to teach.

My second child has now graduated and it's time for her to fly. She leaves in a week to a place that is halfway between my heart and the Pacific Ocean. I look back on our years together as child/parent, student/teacher, mother/daughter, and I can truly say I have no regrets. Together, we have finished the race. I am excited for all that God has planned for her. That’s not to say I won’t cry when she is 1,200 miles away. But we have a true friendship that’s stood the test of time and God has rewarded me with the ability to set her free. So now, once again, I feel the urge to push. It comes after a long, but good labor of love.

Ugly Is Just a Flavor

My son was doing a little summer grammar lesson and asked me if the word "ugly" was an adjective or a proper noun, as in the book title, "The Ugly Duckling". I had to think for a minute. In most cases, "ugly" is an adjective, according to the dictionary. But I guess that really depends on how it is being used, or should I say,
what flavor you want.

Kids can be cruel. Adults too, but contrary to the sticks and stones rhyme, names do hurt. Being called "ugly" cuts deep to the soul. Calling someone that adjective leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of the slanderer, which is almost impossible to wash out. An apology is the only true remedy.

In the South, having a bad attitude is called being "ugly". It's been used to describe my disposition a time or two. Whether I'm annoyingly disagreeable or in an extremely sour mood, "ugly" usually leads to solitude. No one seems to want my company. The function here would be an adverb.

I was introduced to a sweet treat at the local donut shop which appeared deformed but tasted delicious. My guess, these huge fritters are made from a variety of donut scraps as well as apples and leftover raisins. First fried, then glazed with frosting, they are large enough for sharing. The "Ugly" has turned out to be one of my favorites, along with a cup of Joe. Herein, a proper noun, although not in the dictionary.

We live in a world where language keeps evolving. A negative word can have a positive meaning. For example, when your girlfriend sees your new pink highlights and comments you look "bad", she really means it looks fabulous. The flavor of words continue to change.

In the classic story by Hans Christian Anderson, the duckling faces an identity crisis. His differences seem overwhelming and he exists in the shadow of his own label. Eventually, he moves past the boundaries of the adjective and comes to the same realization: bitter, sour or sweet - ugly is just a flavor.

That's Campin'

One of my favorite hobbies is by far camping.

The first time I went camping was in High School which was about 35 years ago. Since that time, I have not had many opportunities to camp but it made a huge impression on me.

I think my favorite thing about camping is the way it seems to turn two days into four, three days into six and so on. My entire family enjoys the time we can spend with one another, leaving many of the "time-suckers" behind.

I have a saying that I like to use while out in the great outdoors. It covers everything from mishaps to celebrations. Just learn to say, "That's Campin'" and any situation can be rectified quickly.

With a little preparation and a good attitude at the start, it is very likely you will fall in love with camping as well.

Cyber Psalmist