Photo by Olivia
I write hesitantly. The past month is hard to summarize, to package with a pretty bow and tie into the perfect blog entry. I will use fewer words and more pictures, even though some of the most significant moments of my holiday were not documented on any type of camera. Strangely enough, the closest I felt to Jesus Christ was when I least expected it. It was challenging to have my little ones away in New Mexico with their dad and step mom over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This was a first for me, and I was quite the baby about it for weeks before it even happened, even though I agreed with their dad that it would be okay. The Lord blessed me and supported me, in spite of my desire to just fall apart.
Christmas morning was one of those times where no camera was to be found. I had the unique opportunity to visit the Juvenile Detention Center at 6:00 am and help cook breakfast for the inmates - one of the only real meals these young men eat all year. I was humbled at how young some of the boys were - as young as 12, just two years older than Olivia. Many of their faces were marked with troubles and pain inflicted upon them so early in life, it seemed they couldn't possibly know any better than to turn to crime. I imagined my children, at the same moment as these boys were receiving their meal without their families, receiving their gifts with excitement, and surrounded by loving family. Sure they were missing their mommy, but they have all they need on a regular basis. They have consistent access to love, opportunities, and resources some of these boys have never known. I was put in my place.
My sweet children were home soon enough, a few days after Christmas. We shared our own little celebration together - sort of Christmas and New Years all rolled into one. Since Olivia received a new digital camera for a combined Christmas/birthday gift, she documented the day well. So well, that I didn't even need my own camera for the rest of the day!
Here is a slide show summarizing the last month for us . . .
2 comments:
Mary Anne,
I just finished reviewing your photos and beautifully written blog entries. What a great way to start my day and a new year!
Love,
Dad
I got very emotional seeing the pics of all our family together--I miss and love you all so much. I know our family isn't perfect, but I admire the strengths of each member and the uniqueness we create together.
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