Saturday, October 18, 2008

A Great Morning


Well, the last post was about my first daughter, Marissa's big sister. Today I have to give equal time to the males and post about Marissa's big brother, Brandon. Marissa and I spent yesterday morning at Brandon's house. What a treat! I really enjoyed spending time with my grown son and his son, Brayden (only 4 1/2 months old). Brandon and I discussed politics, the stock market, his son and wife, allergies; many different topics. It was enlightening and enjoyable to spend a relaxed morning together...adult to adult. I love him so. What a handsome and intelligent young man Brandon is, and he's my son! He is so good and loving with Marissa. Marissa is so dear to him and was definitely an influencial factor in preparing Brandon to be a daddy. Brayden is so dear and looks much like his mama, Brandon's wife, but I believe he just may have his daddy's lips and eyes. When I look into Brayden's eyes I see such innocence and sweetness. It reminds me of looking into Brandon's face when he was a baby. Brandon, you may be grown, but you'll always be my "little" man. I truly do love you so very much and wanted you to have your own post testifying to the fact. I know you will make an incredible husband and father. We are proud of you.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

My Daughter







Okay...this post isn't about Marissa, but my other daughter...my first daughter, Jaime. Jaime is the daughter who taught me to be a mother. Jaime is the daughter who, although we are very different in our lives now, still loves me as much as she needs the breath that sustains her. Has she told me this? No. But I know. Jaime is the daughter who shares my creative spirit, who, although her interests are "darker" than mine, we both must write to feel in tune with who we were created to be. I love her...so much! I am blessed to be called her mom. I was blessed to carry her in my womb. I was blessed that although she was "unexpected" and came early in life, we were able in a way to grow up together. It is a shame that she had such a young mother, but then, if life had not happened the way it did, neither of us would be who we are now. I love her no matter what. I love her despite herself and despite me. We share a love to create, to make something from nothing, to bring others together. To make change. Jaime, I believe in YOU. Bring the best of our journeys together out in your work. Bring the best of who you are. You were created for a purpose. Let others see it.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Things That Matter

This morning I was so blessed to have talked to both my daughters by 10:00 AM. Of course, I was able to see Marissa's beautiful face early this morning, but when Jaime called early this morning, I was wonderfully blessed. Jaime talked of happy childhood memories and of trying to arrange a Christmas or Thanksgiving trip to be with us. Marissa let us talk quite a while. She loves her big sister. They weren't raised together, but share a bond that has tightened despite not seeing each other much due to distance. God is love and He sends us His love in many ways each day. Today He blessed me with a "daughter morning" and my day is strengthened and brightened because of it. I love you, Jaime. I love you, Marissa. You are both special blessings in my life.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Polish That


Marissa LOVES nail polish! She is polishing her nails as I type. She is standing tall on a stepstool next to me, the aroma of nail polish definitely replacing the roast we just took out of the oven.

The polish is a white and glittery color in a "Hello Kitty" bottle that came from her friend, Mia on Marissa's birthday. Mia, you will probably be invited to every event Marissa ever gives because you pick the best birthday presents! Lip gloss, purses, and nail polish are littering the house, from basement to top floor! And she's only 4.

Joy


Last night I asked Marissa what she sees in my eyes when I look at her. Of course, I was hoping to hear the word "love." What she said surprised and delighted me, spreading the warmth in my heart so fast I'm sure she saw it on my face.

When I asked Marissa what she saw in my eyes when I look at her, she said "Joy." The smile on her face was so loving and sincere I almost stopped breathing.

What an answer!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

That's My Girl!


Okay, just because mommy loves her treadmill, that's no reason for my now four-year-old to want one! Mommy only gets to walk a few times a week, but Marissa asked Daddy (out of the blue) for a treadmill of her own for Christmas last night. We found out it's because she saw a kiddie treadmill in one of the many little catalogues being sent to our house right now as the holiday season is approaching. The thing is...I know she'd use it. But, she's not gonna get one. When she gets bigger she can share mine. She sure did make us laugh, though.