Moving in"2" the "3"s ...

It was close to a year ago today that I made my first blog entry. A lot has changed, but fortunately, I've stayed the same, "true at heart." 

Heart2Heart started out of two different ideas:

1. My daughter had just turned 2 and I was trying to figure out how to cope with her getting older and the new "life" with a toddler.

2. I was also starting a new journey as an instructor for first-year students, teaching them about the University and life/study skills.

All in all, it was quite the journey. I've gone back and realized that a lot has happened. I'm beginning my second semester as a University 101 instructor. I've got a great semester planned and pray that God gives me the strength and compassion that are needed to help be the best influence I can on these young(ish) lives.

I've matured as a parent, but I'm also facing a different journey. After surviving the "terrible 2's", I now enter the gates of the 3's. Kendall turned 3 on June 15, a few days ago, and since then, we think we have a "theme" to this age: POWER and CONTROL. Oh yeah, let's not forget defiance!

But for all the headaches that I'm sure we're facing, I don't forget for one mili-second of the path we've taken and the joys that God has granted us, as parents, to have with her. Through defiance comes passion. Through power struggle comes independence. Through control issues come decision making.

Kendall, June 15, 2011: Turning 3

The laughs we share, the smiles we create and the numerous "I love you mommy's" that we hear daily ... I'll take all the headaches that this life throws our way. 

I look at her now and see God's image. I see His plan for me and our family. I see happiness, innocence and life. I'll take the pouty lip and tears to feel her hand in mine.

As we venture into Kendall's 3rd year and life as her mom, keep reminding me that all our hearts are made to love. My heart2heart to share with you tonight: Keep smiling. The tough times are here to help you remember that bright ones are right in front of you. God gives us blessings everyday.

I leave you with a special song that touches me because I realize that all that He makes, is beautiful.