Life ain't always beautiful

But its a beautiful ride. So very true.

Seems like when it rains it pours. This parenting thing becomes harder and harder as my kids grow older. In weeks like last week, I wish that my children came with an instruction booklet. I know that there will be storms and as much as I dont want for my children to go through storms in their lives I must remember that they need those hard times. They need them to grow and change. They need to see that they can get through situations, they need to see my reactions, to help them see how to adapt. They wont always have Mom to fight lifes battles for them. 

Kullen is in the transitional period between young boy and teen. I am finding this age to be a difficult one. He is not difficult, there are just alot of emotions for him to sort through....He is adapting and I am just taking it day by day. Praying relentlessly for him. All part of growing up and getting older I suppose.

He and I will be joining Karate together.( We start tomorrow actually) I took Karate when I was younger and it was a positive experience in my life. I think it will be wonderful for Kullen and ol' Mom will get to have some one on one time with him and get in shape as well. Plus, it will help me actually venture away from home on atleast two week nights, which is a very, very big deal my friends. :) 

I ask that you pray for he and I and if you have any parenting advice for me, im all ears! 

Reagan, has done a wonderful job in school! However, I received news that she has been struggling. Dont get me wrong, she is smart and I am not saying that just because she is mine. But I have to be honest, I noticed a difference in her learning, verses, how Kullen did at her age. I know they all learn different, and I am not saying Kullen in smarter than her. Just saying I knew something was wrong. I had a gut feeling before I ever received the phone call that there was a problem. I am still unaware of of exactly what we are dealing with because she hasnt been tested. I believe my diagnosis as her mom is that she is Dyslexic. She may grow out of it some, and I could be wrong. We shall see. I am going to continue working with her all summer the best I can and then see how she does in 1st grade. Please keep her and I in your prayers on this matter. Nobody wants to hear that his/her child is having a hard time. However, I am thankful for knowing sooner rather than later so we can hit the problem head on with a solution rather than pretending everything is fine.

Both of these matters hurt my heart as a Mom. I dont really know what to do other than do my best and lean on the Lord for direction and support. 


I would also like to pay tribute to all of the Military Men and Woman, past and present. Thank you so much for your service. May God Bless you.  HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY.

Love,
Mandi 

May is the new January.

May is the new January. Its like a time of the year that you can hit the reset button, again. That goes for the blog too, you guys notice the new look? You like? :)

There is just something about May that I love. The transition of spring into summer {for Texas that is}, flowers are in full bloom, the grass is green and the birds are chirping when I arise in the morning. I am truly opening my eyes to the seasons of life that God has started to display before my eyes. We are making so many changes in our lives lately with building a new home, and so many changes going on within myself here as well.

I am a list maker. I know that if I write it down it is more likely to get done. Sometimes life just gets in the way and things are often pushed to the side. I have a few goals for May.

{{{May Goals}}}

Make check list and knock them out
Build custom hall tree for new house.
Keep plants alive. {Last year they looked like Morticia's plants from Adam's Family}
Cook at least 4 nights per week.
Send  3 snail mail letters this month. {send me your addresses PEEPS!}
Continue eating better.
Keep RESISTING the urge to drink soft drinks. {6 weeks SODA FREE, can I get a what, what!}
Remember Teachers gifts for Kullen & Reagan's teachers for Teacher Appreciation. {its May 6th,ya'll}
Become more intentional with prayer.
Blog 1 time per week.
Be more present in pictures with my family- not behind the camera.
Go on a date with each child by themselves.
Stay off cell phone/electronics in the evenings while I should be interacting with my family.
Rest often.
Get as many donations I can for works event this month. {Wanna donate?? let me know!}


Well, thats ALL ive got for today.
I hope you guys have a great week.
-Mandi