watching rowan & remembering others

Sometimes I feel guilty for just sitting and watching Rowan. He's eating or playing or his dad is giving him a bath, and I stop whatever I'm doing and absorb myself in observing him. Why do I feel guilty for spending time watching my child? I think a lot of it has to do with our culture's and my own "go, go, go" mentality. Watching my son grow and learn is the last thing I should be feeling guilty for. He has so much to teach me.

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Every Memorial Day, Brandon and I wonder how we can best honor those for whom Memorial Day was created. We're just never quite sure what to do. Display our flag? Attend a parade? Watch a war film? Whatever we do or say, our appreciation cannot measure up to the sacrifices that have been made by servicepeople and their families.

Today we prayed. Rowan spontaneously grabbed Brandon's hand, then mine, bowed his head and said "Pway!" That's the first time he's ever initiated a prayer, so we took hold of the moment and talked to God on behalf of our military and their families.

Thanks to all of you who have served our country in life and in death.

oprah observations

Whether you like her or not, you probably have an opinion on Oprah Winfrey. Check out this interesting article titled "The divine Miss Winfrey?" Do you agree with the author? One of the sources quoted raises a good question: how can someone who has never been married, never raised children and carries the title of billionaire be in touch with the average American woman (who comprises the majority of her audience)?

normal in our abnormalities

While there are several disturbing aspects of the internet, one of its advantages is providing a place for everyone to feel normal in their abnormalities. The far-reaching arm of the web, as well as the mask of a computer screen, makes it easy to find forums where people with similar struggles can congregate and support each other.

This morning I've been researching a phobia of mine. I won't tell you what it is. I'm too embarassed at this point. But after doing some online research, I've started feeling a little more normal and a little less freakish.

Whatever your quirk or vice, there are other people out there just like you. Use the web in your advantage to normalize your own struggles. Maybe one day we'll be able to be as open in person as we are online.

adoption, stuff & kicker of a cank

People who allow the Lord to bless them with children via adoption are an encouragement to me. Adoption seems to be one of the most real ways to put James 1:27 into action: "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles...."

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I have way too much stuff.

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I am amazed (and a little envious) at the fact that some people will live their entire lives and never experience a cankersore. That's good. They hurt. Like heck.