My Dad Turned 70! And other news...

February 28, 2021

I’ve been thinking a lot about “perspective” this week.

-My dad turned 70...old is perspective.
-My chicken (Big Mama) died...so did an old friend’s child    ...heartache is perspective. 
-I am disgusted with so many things about myself...and a child tells me, “You are the best!”...my value is perspective.

There is rarely any truth in the perspectives of this world, and I am struggling to hang on to the hope of an exponentially better eternity...because sometimes that just doesn’t do much to help me through NOW.  I can only make so much lemonade.  I am running out of sugar, and we seem to be drowning in lemons.
But...even when I am struggling and there are ABSOLUTELY NO ANSWERS, I will cling to my faith...if not solely because I’ve been dramatically convinced...then also because I am stubborn and REFUSE to be bested.

Today, I tried to treat my parents to something uniquely special. It didn’t go as planned. We were completely forgotten by the obviously overwhelmed (and probably new) waitress. I was more angry and upset than it was worth. I checked my anger and held my respectful to the best of my ability. I still offered an above average tip. So..the lemonade was sweet...but I am affected. I wish I could learn to NOT be affected.

Now, this night was special! We had dinner at Olive Garden with most of the grandkids (even 3/5 of the Trenton crew made it!!) and Matt had a miracle...he didn't call in (that NEVER happens). It was the night to remember. Simple. Special. Blessed.

Perspective. These two, though.

Can you believe he is 70?!! My dad turned 70.

It is hard when I start to slowly notice his aging. (It is harder to notice my own!). He will forever be the hero in my life, and I just pray that I inherit that black (more than gray) hair! (I'm losing hope with each kid that comments on the grey hairs on top of my head. I refuse to look...they are blonde, kids.)

This kid has made it possible for us all to survive the last few years. He was not easily won, but I would sacrifice it all again! #mysweetEvan

This kid has made it possible for us all to survive the last few years. He was not easily won, but I would sacrifice it all again! I am one lucky mama. #myboys.

Btw...I feel like I should apologize to the couple in the background, but they were so nice!! I have a feeling they wouldn't mind.

All my children made it!! This is becoming more and more rare; but, as it turns out, they rarely decline free food at a restaurant. It is a scarcity around here. (Hey...I am fiscally responsible. They have survived the Sam’s version for this long...) #mygirls

-1 that magically disappeared prior to the photo shoot...and a few more that couldn’t make it. But...we were grateful for those who could. Grandad and the cousins.

All in all, I think the old man had a sufficient celebration!
In other news:

I lost Big Mama this week.
I loved this old girl. She survived six years (estimated), an opossum attack (she was wounded!), 2 new brood additions, and some recent bitterly cold temps. I can’t fully remember her background, but she may well have been linked to my last visit to Kerri’s house...so I’m not going to research too hard.

I wasn’t her biggest fan (and honestly suspected her of egg eating) until I saw her protecting the eggs. And then she welcomed (and protected) the latest trio...that brought me so much difficulty integrating.

Matt came home from a 12 and buried her for me