FOUR

Well, yesterday my husband and I reached the milestone of four years of wedded bliss. In talking to a friend recently about the reality of marriage and how it really is w-o-r-k, I got to thinking... I mean four years for us has flown by, and at the same time, I feel like it's been always...like there's never been a time when we weren't an "us". Sure there have been days when the work wasn't very fun, too difficult, too hard- but it has always been the kind of work that really pays off. What you put in, you most definitely get out. Some of the most difficult pride swallowing exchanges have brought the most unity and peace in our lives. I thank God for my husband. He is a man of integrity, and character. I deeply cherish what we have and pray for a lifetime of "us".

The missing link

Ok, I think I finally figured out this whole working out thing. Today was the third day I worked out during my lunch hour. And I think I really like it!

First of all it gets rid of my main excuses for not working out:

1. No time: I have an hour each day with nothing I HAVE to do.

2. No energy: I actually do have energy this early in the day

3. Takes away from family or other priorities: This is an hour I am away from my family everyday whether I like it or not. Why not use it more effeciently?

4. Accolades: Peoples looks and comments, "Wow, you're dedicated, woah? working out?" fuel me to think to myself, "Yeah...I AM dedicated! OOOHHH LOOK AT ME!!!!" Just kidding.

Anyway, I am enjoying the break each day and I am energized as I get moving and see a slight amount of momentum building...

Mommy wow, I'm a big kid now...

I looked back over my shoulder this morning as I dropped Angelina off for her very first day of preschool. She was watching me through the window as she sat at a table and played. She gave me a wave and a funny look. She didn't seem scared, just kind of, unsure. Maybe unsure of what this new thing called "school" meant...but brave enough to take on the challenge.

She is such a special girl, and I am so blesesed to be her mom. When Brad and I found out after only 8 months of marriage that we'd be having a baby, I wasn't sure I was ready for that. Now, years later I don't know how anyone could enrich someone's life as much as she has ours.

Once I had a friend who has been...let's say...reluctant to have a child, ask me the following question. "Noelle, tell me the truth. When you tell me you hope I have a kid soon, are you saying it because it really is great - or just that misery loves company?"

I couldn't really put in to words my feelings other than saying, without a doubt being a mom is the most amazing thing I've done. Maybe not every minute of every day, but at some point in every day, I thank God that He brought her into my life. Are you a parent? What are your thoughts?