Lessons I'm Learning Along the Road - Part 2

Choices

I received a phone call last night from a mom I met at M&M's gym class. She wanted to apologize for her perceived insensitivity of me. Let me explain. Her son has many sensory and tone issues. He usually needs an adult with him during class for assistance, but recently is feeling confident to explore alone. Yesterday, he did a somersault - first ever. He jumped up, eyes searching for his mom - and together they cheered. He in the gym, she at my side through the observation glass. Tears followed. This mom was so moved by her son's accomplishment that her emotion overtook her, and she reacted in the most genuine mom way. She was concerned that her excitement was insensitive to how I must be feeling because of Eamon's situation. I assured her that her reaction was most appropriate, and that I recently had a similar experience with Eamon - the belly laughing.

This reminded me that for many people our "situation" seems quite difficult. And sometimes, it is. But, the greater part of our time is spent rejoicing over the beauty we see in and through Eamon's life. I have found that God gives us what we need for each day, plenty of common grace. But, what is required of me is the choice. I have to decide to trust, decide to believe, decide to be joy-full. And when I do, when I decide to count on God - He meets me, every time. And it's immediate. I might toil over the choice, time wasted there, but God's response is always immediate. He has yet to fail me.

The Box

I am a think-inside-the-box-kind of girl. Life in general, and in particular with Eamon, requires some outside the box experiences. David and I have contemplated sending the video clip of Eamon laughing to one of the high-risk Dr's we had when I was pregnant. She clearly questioned our "commitment to the pregnancy" and was certain that death was the "fetus's" only future. And so, here you have our little man, laughing in the face of all that was pronounced over him. Life existing outside the box that she placed him in. Life, different from all she knew it could be. Life abundant and full - outside the box. As a matter of fact, blowing the top right off!

And then there is our knowledge of God. How can we explain Him and His ways? They too do not fit into my neatly lined-up boxes. His ways and thoughts are so much higher than mine. I read recently, who would want to worship a God who can be fully comprehended? One limited by my capacity to create. He is I am - what does that mean? To me, it means He is in all of it: the pain, struggle, and tears; and, the miracles and wonders, peace that passes understanding, and the joy unspeakable. He is with us and for us. Always working all things together for our good and to make his glory known.

Gift List continued

111. Encounters with God - in or out of the box!

Beginnings

David and I celebrated our anniversary on Sunday - 12 years married + 5 years dating = half my lifetime! We spent a night away at an Inn on Greenwood Lake. Eamon joined us. It was a complete pleasure to have him along - he is good company, especially now that he is laughing. We treasure every moment with our little man! David and I were able to simply laugh, and delight in time spent together.

I found the excitement Maeve and Myles were exhibiting to be contagious! They were counting the days until their respective sleepovers (Maeve to Mimi's, Myles to Grandma's), but more importantly to the big day. They were consumed with knowing the details of our beginnings. We looked through our photo album and watched the video. Myles gave up by the end of the ceremony, but perked up for the Macarena - Uncle Jeff looked pretty impressive on the dance floor! We all laughed and cried as we looked back to where it all began. And I realized how significant this celebration was for our children. August 10, 1996 is where the "Barclay 5" story began, their story. And so we thought it fitting to take our M&Ms out for a special dinner the eve of our anniversary.

Maeve and Myles love steak - so we dined at Ruth's Chris Steak House over looking the Hudson River with such a view of the city. Maeve and I primped for some time, carefully choosing our dresses and accessories. The boys, meanwhile, played ball in the yard and dressed within 5 minutes. We enjoyed sharing a toast (or two, or three, or four - everyone had something to say). Maeve was taking notes on what exactly is involved in a romantic dinner : atmosphere, lighting, music, delighted senses, and of course, great company.

I think we may have started a tradition - August 9th, the eve of our anniversary, and a celebration of beginnings. Here's to the Barclay 5!


Gift List:

110. Our 12th anniversary. I'd still say YES!

"Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be"

Laughter is Good Medicine

*Updated! Yeah, thanks to my neighbor I was able to add the video. Be patient, it takes Eamon a bit to warm up!

Unmistakable laughter. What a gift for us to hear and see the joy Eamon is experiencing. Knowing that our little man is connecting to the people and things around him is completely satisfying to this mom and dad!

This is new for Eamon. It is like the first time your newborn clearly responds - only a little later than usual for us. For a long time Eamon did not smile, let alone laugh; and I was OK with it for me, but I so wanted it for him - that expression of pleasure. Now however, I am spoiled and a bit addicted to his funny ways. I need the interaction, and am eternally grateful to be front-row-center to such an explosion of development for Eamon!

"The joy of the Lord is your strength." (Ne 8:10) - Eamon's and ours!

Number 109 on my Gift List - Laughter.

This is a quick video of the little mister working the crowd. Well, his dad.

A teaser, I can not seem to get the clip to upload. I'll try again.

Whatever!

"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8

Each night as I tuck Maeve in she asks that I pray for her dreams. I always pray that her thoughts, as she sleeps, would focus on all the attributes listed above. So tonight, as I write, I remind myself to do the same. I could tell of the myriad of hassles that occurred, or my frustrations with this and that, or concerns that lay on my heart; but instead I will think on what is good.

Yesterday evening, Maeve and Myles were playing a variety of sports in the yard. Play had moved to the front, and they needed me to hose down their b-ball court - I don't know what for, but I obliged. As I was spraying, I allowed my wayward hose to catch Myles by surprise. He complained, "Now my clothes are all wet!" To which I responded, "So," and sprayed him again. Well, Maeve got involved, Myles decided this was a great idea, and within 3 minutes I had two drenched kids rearing to go. A quick change into bathing suits, a sprinkler set up, and what followed was pure joy - for us both!

Summertime-sprinkler-fun is number 108 on my Gift List!

Thankful Tuesday!

Gift List, continued...

103. Younger brothers, Timothy in my case. I was remiss in mentioning his participation in our get away last weekend. Tim rearranged his beach plans to visit with us at Jerry's. We had dinner, conversation, lots of laughing, and a slumber party. My children are delighted by his antics, and I relish our time together! I Love you, Tim!

104. My Aunt Kathy. We chatted on the phone today. My heart is full with such warm memories. She is a great aunt, a favorite really! I just love spending time with her, talking and laughing and sharing life. I only hope my own nieces and nephews think of me so affectionately.

105. Kid talk. I love some of their mispronunciations. I never correct them, because I know soon enough they will get it right. Some of my current favorites: Maeve asking for some delicious "dress steak" = skirt steak; Maeve and Myles asking to go to "Garamus Park" = Paramus Park; Myles wanting to use his "lan-ter-in" = lantern, in the yard. I think I might just write a post on the phrases for posterity.

106. Rites of passage. Sunday, Grandma, Aunt Lisa, Emma, Maeve, and I went into the City to visit The American Girl Place. Beautiful dolls with every accessory conceivable. Floors of them actually. Clothes, furniture, pets, books about the dolls. Even a hair salon for the girls and dolls. It was so thrilling to watch Maeve and Emma, all a twitter, getting their treasures. Aren't girls fun!

106. Tonight, after dinner, my dad played ball in the yard with Maeve and Myles. My children are blessed to have all their grandparents living in the same town. I love that on a Tuesday night, Papa is available. I didn't have my camera, but the picture is printed on my heart.

107. Eamon's laugh is expanding. Lately, we have been getting not just one "Ha", but two even three in succession. All this sounds like belly laughing to us!

Girls Just Want To Have Fun!

Maeve had a playdate on Friday, and for 2 plus hours the girls played dress-up, rock star style. Thank God I had the forethought to send Myles swimming with Emma and had Eamon tucked in for a nap, or I am sure they would have been subjected to the role of background vocals! I, the paparazzi, did my best to capture some of the fun. Scary how many Hannah Montana/Jonas Brothers' songs I can sing!

A quick costume change for Marissa, and the girls decided the neighbors needed some attention - so the concert resumed outdoors!

My little star. Maeve said it's obvious that God wants her to be a rock star because he gave her such a good singing voice! And the moves, might I add!

And Away We Go...

Last Saturday, we set off to visit my brother Jerry and his family. They live in Maryland, about a half hour from DC and an hour from the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. We thought we would capitalize on such great real estate and visit the sights. What fun we had! Our children would have been thrilled just to be with their cousins - the places we went, were simply the gravy!


Our first day, we went to the Natural History Museum. Maeve was awed by the Hope Diamond and gem collection, Myles was delighted by the dinosaurs. After lunch, we headed for the Air and Space Museum. Planes, rockets, and a simulator - joy was abounding! A stop in a secret garden with monuments in sight topped it off.



Day two, a drive to the National Zoo. The home of the pandas - "Impossible!" reported Myles, "They live in the hills of China." How do they know this stuff, anyway there were a family of pandas and we were able to see them snooze. Home for some late afternoon lunch and swimming. All six children finally asleep, and it's movie night for the adults. We laughed, sitting around in some form of PJ's, how great to indulge in an adult slumber party!

Our last morning, lingering over coffee and some home cooked-greatness my sister-in-law served up, and it was off to the Aquarium in Baltimore. Stingrays, sharks, cow fish and more. Eamon was given special treatment, we could keep the stroller and use the elevator. Oh, the perks! Truly a good time was had by all. I am so thankful for family whose presence is the reward. #102 on my gift list!

And, back to NJ. Eamon did so well. Driving four hours was a concern O2 wise. But, we have arranged his seat in such a way to allow great respiration while testing the limits of car seat safety. It's a balancing act. He was adored by the five other children - lots of kisses, hugs, chatting, toy demonstrations, and whatever else they could muster up. Eamon was just soaking it all up and performing on command.

(That's Eamon, behind the crowd!)

Wednesday we rested, and played a little mini golf, a first for the Barclay children. Eamon did not love this activity - too hot! To bed early for the grand finale on Thursday!

Great Adventure! The safari was amazing. Lions and tigers and bears, oh, my - and, mostly not in cages. Maeve screamed for most of the hour we drove. Highlights: an elephant atop a rock scratching his "tush"; baby giraffes, zebras and ostrich; the lion king playing with his harem; kangas running/jumping; bear family at work and play, white tigers, and baboons doing what they do.

And then, rides and rides, interspersed with a Wiggles' show, Dolphin show, Tiger show, and then more rides! Oh, the fun. Maeve and Myles went on a real roller coaster, which meant I went on twice - David was all "rided out"! As a special note and nod to my brave husband, David, who went on his first roller coaster ride, ever! Albeit, a Looney Tune one. He claims it was exhilarating, and to have seen his face - just pure joy mixed with anxiety - priceless!

What a great week. Maeve and Myles are still reeling. Thank you Jerry, Erica, Brigit, Claire, and Madeline for your hospitality! We now have a two week break before our trip to South Carolina. We are praying that Eamon will be ready for such a long drive!