Directions

Street signs give us directions to follow. Job descriptions let us know policies (directions) to show us the way. Manuals come with appliances, any test out there has guidelines, and even practices before the big event. I can even put together manufactured furniture with the directions I find in the plastic bag at the bottom of the box.
Having all of these directions makes life a little easier, but throw in the most awesome of responsibility of being a parent and the very best advise from my elders is the best direction I can find; not one manual or description, or guideline can be found anywhere to fit those scenarios that come up at the drop of a hat. I found this to be true this evening. Here is how it goes...
Jeff's phone beeped in the text. He read it and said the same curse word three times consecutively. I asked what the problem was. He said, "Comanche backed into someone at auto zone!". I grabbed my keys, my purse and headed for my jeep. Jeff was right behind me. On the way to auto zone I got a text saying the same thing. I asked if he was okay and started breathing again when he said he was okay. I pulled into parking lot to see my son and another young man standing behind their cars. Comanche's eyes were wide and alert. I hugged my son and asked if everyone was okay and was reassured all involved were fine. The young man's wife was holding a small baby. I asked if the baby was alright. The young mother smiled and said everyone was fine. The young man apologized to Comanche for cursing at him as the trooper pulled in. I explained to Comanche that the officer would want his license, registration and insurance card. Comanche already had everything in his hand. The trooper took everyone's information and I stood by my son. Jeff checked out the damage to both vehicles. Comanche clipped the other car's right tail as he was backing out at an angle. I spoke to the young family and found out they were buying a radiator for a truck that had blown up this morning on the guys way to work. The trooper came over and handed everyone's stuff back and said they could each get a copy of the report and both were advised to call their insurance companies. The trooper left and so did the young family after telling Comanche several stories of how they had both had similar accidents in their lives. I asked Comanche if he was ok to drive home and he said he was shaken up but wanted to go home. We made it home and I explained to Jeff that Comanche didn't need to be yelled at because he was his own worst critic right now. When we were all at home, I hugged Comanche again and told him how proud I was that he stood like a man and did the right thing by that young family. He said he just wanted to cry and wanted to start paying his own insurance. His dad told him that the first accident would be covered by his parents (Lauren has one we pay for) and that the next would be on Comanche. Comanche hugged me several times and apologized.
Here is where a manual would have been helpful. While I understand fender benders, it scares the curl out of my hair to think how much worse most accidents are. Then I have to remember how God's love for His children is even more powerful than a mother's love for her child. My manual is my Bible. My pilot is the God who knows all. I'm not even a co pilot. I'm just the stewardess trying to make everyone's flight more comfortable along the way. I have to remind myself how when I push the captain out of the way, I fly straight into the storm and find myself in a terrible way.
My point is... Parenting is difficult at best, but what a great role model we have as a parent in our Lord and Savior, Jesus.

Recharging Batteries

Comanche and I spent an extended weekend visiting family in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The drive was incredible - both ways! I had such an enjoyable time talking with my son. We talked about everything from the outer solar systems to how cool it is to just sit and be quiet. We both had a fantastic time recharging our batteries with the Moad and Rainwater side of the family. Steve and Mac were tons of fun to be with, their families were breathtaking (as always) and it was sooooo good to see Mom and Murry...they both looked great and were such a pleasure to stay with.

We were able to recharge our batteries. There is no easier way to say it. We love our home, family, and friends in Kentucky; but there is something about seeing our Midwestern family that rejuvenates and refreshes us. We laugh until we pee, we visit until our tongues are tired, and we are lavished with hugs, kisses, pampering, and Braum's ice cream until we feel as if we have enough energy built up to keep us until the next time.

The weather could not have been more perfect, the timing with each family member was impeccable, and love abounded from every pore in our souls. I thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with my niece and nephews. Chase and Eli fill my heart with pure sweetness and Addy gives as good as she gets (which is absolutely adorable to watch and participate in).

I am doubly blessed when it comes to family. Actually..triple blessed. My husband and son are true gifts from God, my KY family is so wonderful, and my Midwestern family is the epitome of love and happiness. Thank you, God.