A "Moment"

Last night, Pierce had gone to eat with Will, his best friend that lives down the street. So it was just the three of us - me, Brett, and Sierra at home. Sierra was sitting at the table doing homework. She had to make a "me" bag and write a paragraph about herself. In her "me" bag, she had pictures of her animals, a softball, jewelry, and a picture from our wedding of the whole family. As she was writing, Brett started telling her how proud we are of her. She has really grown-up and is becoming such a sweet, beautiful girl. She is kind-hearted, sensitive, and truly cares about others. During the conversation, Sierra looks up - straight at me and says, "I couldn't do it without you." Then she gets out of her chair and comes over to hug me. Of course, I teared up and started to cry. It was a "Moment" that I will never forget. I realize that I have a place in Pierce and Sierra's life as a step-parent. I don't want to take their moms place, or do anything to jeopardize their relationship with her. Luckily, I had a step-mother, and my children have a step-mother, so it prepared me for this time in my life. Sierra then looked at me and said, "sometimes I forget you are my step-mom."

I know we've had some tough "moments" and there will be more to come in the future. But who doesn't? That is part of being a parent..sometimes saying and doing things your children don't agree with, or understand.

But last night, Thursday, August 20, 2009, will be a day I remember for a long time.

First day of school

Today was the first day of school for Sierra and Pierce. Sierra is entering the fourth grade, and Pierce is going into first. They were both so cute, and excited about school. I thought Pierce would be nervous, but Sierra is the one that seemed nervous. I think there is a lot of pressure on kids these days - how they look, how they act, what they wear.
Sierra said over and over

how good she looked. :) She is getting so grown up and really likes dressing up for school. Pierce was more concerned with his watch (probably so he would know when it was lunch time, recess, and time to go home:), but he also was pretty proud of his new clothes.
They both took their lunch today - Sierra PBJ, her fav! And Pierce took his staple

Ramon Noodles. Which I had to make sure and get them just right. Guess I will find out at 3:30 if I passed the test. We actually did a test several days ago and made them in the morning, and he tested them that afternoon. haha Lot of pressure these days being a parent.

Other than a little rain, lightening, and traffic (due to road construction)...this morning was flawless. No stress, no worries, just two happy children. JUST the way we like it!

Happy first day of school Sierra and Pierce!!!

Kind of weird to put song lyrics on your blog, but a friend sent this to me and it has such a powerful message and gives us much to think about.
What would you do if today was your last day?

If Today Was Your Last Day lyrics
Songwriters: Kroeger, Chad;
Singer: Nickelback

My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had, if today was your last day?
What if, what if, if today was your last day?

Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the price is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you're never living twice
Don't take the free ride in your own life

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of?
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day?

If today was your last day
Would you make your mark by mending a broken heart?
You know it's never too late to shoot for the stars
Regardless of who you are

So do whatever it takes
'Cause you can't rewind a moment in this life
Let nothing stand in your way
'Cause the hands of time are never on your side

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day

I Would Gather Children

One of my favorite poems. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

I Would Gather Children

Some would gather money
Along the path of life,
Some would gather roses,
And rest from worldly strife.

But I would gather children
From among the thorns of sin,
I would seek a golden curl,
And a freckled, toothless grin.

For money cannot enter
In that land of endless day,
And roses that are gathered
Soon will wilt along the way.

But oh, the laughing children,
As I cross the sunset sea,
And the gates swing wide to heaven
I can take them in with me!
~ Author Unknown ~

Best Friends

These are pictures of Pierce and Jack. They have been best friends since they were 3 years old and attended the same daycare. They no longer go to the same school or daycare - but we stay in contact with Jack's parents and get the boys together as often as possible. This past week, Pierce had Jack over to spend the night. They stayed up late and got up early playing non-stop. I don't think I heard them argue one time. They are so cute together and have so much fun!
Nice to have a best friend.