Roses

I have been reminded of many things this week, and most importantly I have been able to step aside and look at the growth and the blessings that have been given to us. I am a "let's go, let's hurry kind of mom". I am always rushing my kids. I am always telling them to not touch things at the store and telling them to fold their arms. I have never realized that I was missing so many roses that smell so wonderful. I had a few moments this week where I thought to myself, "this is true bliss, i am so blessed." Target just started putting out their Halloween stuff. My kids share the same love and excitement that I do for this awesome holiday, so they asked if we could look at all of the stuff. Pre cancer Holly would have said "no, we need to hurry." Seriously, why all of this hurrying?! Instead I said "sure, let's do it!" Not only did we look down each aisle, we TOUCHED and pressed buttons on every single loud, moving, dancing, crawling, singing, booing, creepy thing we could and it was so much fun. My kids just giggled. That is when I stepped out of myself and realized how wonderful it is to smell the roses sometimes. Is there a better sound than the giggles of my own children? Other moms around me who were telling there kids to not touch, kept staring at us and I just thought, "bummer for them, they are missing out on 'a moment' with their kids." All of Target was aloud with spooky, creepy noises and I was not embarrassed even one little bit. I smiled as we left knowing we all had fun. This was a big epiphany for me. Aside from the blessings of enjoying my children, today I had a realization of how fragile and temporary this life is, and how so not important some things are in our lives. We found out today that Nate's parents neighbor, neighbors his family grew up with, passed away on Sunday. He took his own life while his family was out of town and left behind a wonderful wife and two college aged boys. It just broke my heart. It made me thankful for my life, for mortality, for the lives of my family. It made me want to hold them tight and never let go. We do not know how long we have with these people, on this earth, who love us unconditionally. Cherish EVERY moment, every chance for a hug, a kiss, a snuggle, a giggle, a moment. Forget that your husband didn't take out the trash or that he doesn't close the toilet lid or the shower curtain. Remember that he works hard to provide for your family, that he is a wonderful father and he is a great kisser. Remember how you fell in love with him and the moment you knew you wanted to spend eternity with him. It is never too far to go back. God is a God of miracles, of love and of mercy. Take time to smile at those around you, not to complain that the woman in front of you at the store is using 100 coupons, or growl that your son got granola bar in the carpet. Embrace each moment. Eat chips and homemade salsa and watch LOST until 3 in the morning with your honey. Be grateful for all that you have. If you aren't careful you could miss out on the blessings that even trials bring you.