Destination

We've all heard the phrase, "It's not about the destination, it's about the journey." In many ways, that's been an underlying theme of my blog for the last 2 years. And what I love the most about that statement is that our journeys are all so wildly different, yet at the same time, they are at the core, very much the same.

We all have challenges. We all have a goal -- a destination -- in mind. And while sometimes the path might not be the one we would have chosen or may even be full of some pot holes we'd rather not jump, the point is that we can push through it. If the desire is there -- if the will to reach that destination is strong enough -- we can get there, regardless of the challenges.

During this journey, there have been times when I've been sad about the things Brooklyn won't be able to do. Things that her sisters will be able to do -- maybe even do together -- while Brooklyn has to sit on the sidelines.

But, VERY much like her determined big sisters, Brooklyn has once again taught me that if there is a destination she wants to reach, she will reach it. In her way.

Kendall LOVES doing gymnastics. In fact, I think I see her upside down more than I see her right side up throughout the day. She is constantly doing cartwheels, handstands, and headstands, regardless of where she is or what she is (a-hem) wearing. (We have since decided that shorts must be worn under all skirts and dresses...)

Always trying to be part of the action, Brooklyn started asking me to flip her over. Of course, at first I was happy to do so, but after 923 assisted somersaults, I realized perhaps I should have thought that one through a little. She is 21 months old and doesn't quite comprehend what "one more time" truly means. So to her dismay, Mommy has to say "no" after about 2 or 3 flips.

But not to worry, Miss Brooklyn has figured out her own way to gymnastics -- without Mommy's help -- and is more than happy to perform on command. In fact, she now has added a pause between acrobats to wait for applause.

This video is a little old and was taken around Easter, but I still wanted to share it. Brooklyn's "gymnastics journey" may look different, but really, does it matter? The girl has reached her destination, and she is happy and proud. And so am I.

*Please ignore my extremely annoying high-pitched "excited" voice. Precautions will be taken in future videos to prevent possible hearing loss.*

Hello Again

By the looks of this blog, we never had an April. Whoops. How did that happen? Honestly, I never intended for a whole month to go by without posting, but I have to admit that my initial absence was intentional.

As much as I love this blog and it is my outlet, anytime I find myself tempted to do something for "blog material"  or, worse, putting way too much energy into checking back for comments, I pull back. I like sharing our story and putting it all down for prosperity, but I never want to fabricate anything. I enjoy blogging about something awesome we did, but I don't want to do something awesome just so I can blog about it. See the difference?

In other words, I try to keep myself in check.

And, really, sometimes I don't want to share everything. The last few months have been trying for me, and I like to gain a little perspective before I go spilling my guts. I want to be real, yes, but I believe some things are truly matters of the heart that need to be between you and God. That is, unless He leads you to share those feelings.

I've had a pretty important post traveling around my head for a while now, and I hope I have the courage to write it soon. I considered writing it today, but like someone who hasn't been to the gym for a while, I'm kinda just showing up today. No pressure to try and write a manifesto, just dipping my toe back into something I truly enjoy doing for me and for my family...when I have the time.

So, just like any good lazy blogger, I'm going to sum up the last month in photos. But only because I want to. Hopefully, you enjoy them too.


My favorite Easter photo that captures all of their personalities... my goofy Emma, my giggly Kendall, and my happy little Brookie.




All of our Spring Break family fun jam-packed into one day: A family trip to the Museum of Science and Industry, followed by the Sox game.









 
My usually neglected feet showing off a pair of FREE sandals (long story...) and Florida-ready mint green toes.




My awesome, totally relaxing, and ridiculously affordable annual road trip to Panama City Beach, courtesy of my dear friend's generous in-laws. Five stressed-out mamas doing nothing but reading, sleeping and laughing like teenagers for five days straight... all the while, our hubbies willingly hold down the fort and take care of our kiddos. So, so blessed.



And, finally, Soccer Mom season #2 is in full swing, and I have already learned the importance of blankets and snacks. Soccer Dad is still learning the importance of "playing for fun"...and maybe I am a little bit too. Maybe.