2014 - Silver Linings

Boys,

So a few weeks ago I was thinking back on our year and about all of the fun we've had and how much we've grown and changed and then it hit me... On paper 2014 looks a little rough.  I lost both of my grandmothers, Daddy had reconstructive ACL and meniscus surgery and I suffered 2 miscarriages.  While I realize it could be so much worse, that's a lot of stress in one year and a lot for a family to go through.  The whole "In sickness and Health" part of our vows was somewhat tested.  Daddy had to take on all parenting duties while I was traveling to Missouri for funerals, twice within a month.  The emotional sadness and physical pain of a miscarriage is something that really can't be described. It made Mommy love you both even more when I thought it wasn't possible.

Here's the silver lining... while thinking back on all of this hardship one thing stood out to me.  It hadn't ever occurred to me in the midst of it that we were having a rough year.  All of His blessings overshadowed the sadness.  Mommy learned to be a selfless caretaker(or tried to be), that it's ok to be sad sometimes and then to seek that silver lining... no matter how hard it may be.  Daddy learned to slow down and be patient with recovery.  You boys learned that grown ups cry too and to really play with each other and enjoy each other.  

We both have wonderful jobs where we truly get to use our gifts.  You kids have grown and flourished more this year than ever before. Neither of you are "babies" anymore, although you'll always be our babies.  Grady - you have excelled in school and accomplished many goals you set for yourself.  You played basketball, baseball and football with heart and even made the All Star baseball team.  You are still learning that having fun is more important than winning.  Your dedication to perfecting your sports makes us so proud.  Cole, you grew into a little man this year... talking in complete sentences, becoming potty trained (PTL) and flourishing at Mrs. Stephanie's house.  We all enjoyed a trip to the beach in Florida, Missouri for a family reunion and Utah for Christmas and skiing.  We had nerf/water gun fights and pizza/movie nights when Daddy was immobile.  We spent lots of time at the pool soaking up the sunshine, countless days at the park, and with friends playing until we couldn't play anymore.  Life has been good.  

Through the rough spells the good outshined the bad and that is pretty special.  Let that be a lesson to you.  No matter what comes your way, there's always a silver lining, always.  Life is good and each day is a gift.  Smile even when you don't feel like it, laugh every single day and do good in others' lives.  

I Love you both more than ice cream and guacamole.  Happy New Year!  2015 is going to be a great year!

Love,

Mommy