First Week of Pre-K

The day finally came that William and Oliver were anticipating, their first day of Pre-K.  They were so excited, but nervous too.  It was fun witnessing their enthusiasm as they got dressed and ready for school.  They each had their lunch boxes, back packs, and smiles.  Today was a bittersweet day for me.  This was supposed to be the day that William began kindergarten, Oliver entered Pre-K, and Carter began preschool.  However, academically, William needed one more year of Pre-K.  The bittersweet part is because that now means Will and Ollie were going to share the same class.  Although Oliver was very excited about being together with Will, Will did not share that same enthusiasm.  The two of them have always been bonded, but Bruce and I have worked very hard to give them each some separation to encourage their individuality.  Being in the same class, we fear, will cause competition and comparison.  Oliver is extremely detailed oriented and although he appears to not be paying attention, he remembers EVERYTHING.  Will, on the other hand, has to work a little harder to commit something to memory (academically speaking).  Socially, Will has excellent skills and gets along with everyone.  Oliver is very socially inept.  Will has a tendency to be the peacemaker in the household and assumes the role of older brother exceptionally well.  He watches out for Oliver and frequently reminds him that he should behave.  So, being in class together may be a little difficult.  I cherish Will's heart and leadership as the bigger brother, but being in the same classroom could be rough. 

Each morning last week, the boys were still excited about returning to school.  That is always a good thing for a mom.  We prayed about where to place the boys this school year because their last school closed their doors due to low enrollment, and the school they were districted for was already full.  I was referred to Hollis Primary (which is one town away from us) by their districted school.  That very day, I called Hollis and that same morning that school had been approved to open up 2 new slots for students in my town.  God thing or what?  Those two slots were for William and Oliver.  If you are the praying type, you understand how nice it is to get confirmation.  I felt like God was leading us to this school, but when the confirmations began this week, it just gave me a peace.  Between the boys being so happy, their teachers being well equipped in the special education department, and the team already working on helping Oliver with various services, I just know that the boys have been placed in the right school. 

Their teacher called me last week just to give me an update and take the time to ask me what I thought.  She even noticed the burden that William puts upon himself to correct Oliver's behavior, while also protecting him.  So she took Will aside and explained to him that Oliver was the teacher's responsibility.  She wanted to relieve Will of any responsibility so that he could be freed up and could experience his own academic success.  I am so thankful for teachers that provide me with communication and truly care about their students.  I know they work hard for the little appreciation they receive.

Carter was left behind this year.  Even though he wanted to be in school like his big brothers, he has enjoyed staying home with me.  He cried the first day Will and Ollie went to school.....thus, this picture.  But he and I have had one on one time and it has been fun.  He is a completely different child when left to his own time.  He has been singing, dancing, and playing happily all week long.  He hasn't had to share anything.  I would say he was actually giddy. 

I look forward to enjoying my new schedule this year.  Having just one child at home, even if just for a couple of hours a day, it a whole new dynamic that I am embracing.  Having a peace about where Will and Oliver are attending school is a relief.  I can't wait to see the growth and maturity this year as Ollie and Will experience Pre-K. 

Final Year of Junior High.....YIKES!!

Wasn't I JUST walking this guy into his classroom on his first day of Kindergarten?  My same little boy that was so petite with a large vocabulary and even bigger mind.  Zander was the child that was ok with having mom walk him to class, but was ready for me to vacate very quickly because he was a "big boy".  He certainly didn't need his momma hanging around for those cute first day pictures of the classroom, his desk, or his teacher.  I love watching all the pictures of children on their first day of kindergarten on facebook because it brings back such sweet memories. 

Zander's 1st day. 

This is Zander's beloved Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Pounds.  There were many great teachers at Orange Park Elementary, but Mrs. Pounds was certainly the absolute best Kindergarten teacher for Zander.  She truly loves children and Zander loved her so much.  He still fondly talks about Mrs. Pounds.  We were  fortunate that he had such a positive beginning.  Until we moved to New Hampshire, we were looking forward to having Mrs. Pounds teach our three little guys.  Orange Park Elementary was a special school.  Small in size but large in heart.  Considering all the over-crowding of schools in our area, OPE was able to stay small and quaint.  The principal knew all the children's names and was able to match parents with their child.  Because this school was in such demand, they maintained a waiting list for enrollment.  Beau and I actually camped out on the school grounds for 3 nights to secure a spot for Zander.  Even after 3 nights of camping out, we were still only #17 on the list.  Some parents camped out for an entire week before the enrollment.  They of course were #1 and #2 on the list.  Being #17 didn't allow us to initially enroll at OPE.  There were only 16 openings.  However, literally 1 day before school began, we got the phone call that they had room for him.  An opening became available at the last minute.  We considered ourselves incredibly lucky.  The school did the "camping out" event annually, but Zander's class was the last year that used that avenue for enrollment.  Now, they use a lottery system.  I must say, however, camping out allowed Beau and I to meet the other parents and children and that was a precious time for us.  We truly enjoyed out time there.  Parents came together to to cook meals together while our children all played together.  Such fond memories. 

 

Well, last week I sent Zander off to his first day of 8th grade.  8TH GRADE!!!  Last year of junior high.  The last milestone before high school.  I have been looking at old pictures this week and have really enjoyed reminiscing over Zander's "first day of school" pictures and reflecting on his successes and his not-so successes.  He's growing into a young man before my very eyes.  He has traded in his crayons and stick glue for lockers and rotating schedules.  It is amazing, though, that whatever his age, I still have the same worries as I did when he was in kindergarten.  I guess it is true what my mother said.....he will always be my baby.                                                                                                                    

Feeling Helpless

Knowing your child needs help and not knowing what to do can be one of the most helpless feelings a parent can have.  Children need their parents for so many things.   We are friends, disciplinarians, teachers, doctors, cheerleaders, chauffeurs, and cooks.  Mommies know how to kiss a boo-boo and make it all better.  Moms seize every teachable moment possible.  We know when their cries need attention and when they just need to be delicately ignored as he "works it out."  We comfort, encourage, listen, give advice, and nurture.  Moms can cook dinner, have laundry running, practice letters with one child, all while listening to another child talk about his day.  Moms are the fixer of problems, the finder of lost toys, and the lover of their childrens' hearts. 
But sometimes, things happen and a mom can't just strategically place a band aid and cover up the wound.  Sometimes the wound is deeply penetrated within ones heart, brain, and soul.  This is how I would describe my Oliver.  We had a rough day today, one that I would like to forget.  One where I could call it a day and know that tomorrow will be perfect.  But it won't. 

Our family has been struggling for a long time with decisions regarding Ollie.  We have suspected for months, well, really, now years, that he suffers from some form of autism.  When he was our foster son, I mentioned this to the caseworkers and to his pediatrician.  The basic consensus was that I was "just a foster mom" and essentially my opinion wasn't important nor was it even considered.  I was either looking for problems that didn't exist or I was not equipped to handle a child with "personality".  Either way, I was dismissed.  But a mother knows.  Foster mom or adoptive mom, or birth mom, it doesn't matter. A MOM knows. 

Oliver has good days and he has rough days.  On the good days, most people wouldn't even notice any idiosyncrasies.  On good days, I even convince myself that everything is ok.  I even begin to dismiss the idea of autism all together.  But then, we have a day like today.  Today was Oliver's Pre-Kindergarten orientation and meet the teacher day.  He was so extremely excited.  I made sure not to mention it until today because he would have pestered me relentlessly if he had to wait with that information.  I had prayed so fervently about this day for Oliver.  I knew he would be excited, but I also knew all the changes would be difficult.  A new school, new teachers, new classmates, and now, he and Will are sharing the class together.   Bruce and I always cross our fingers and brace ourselves whenever we introduce Oliver to a new situation because we don't know how he will respond.  Sometimes a new event is fun and exciting for Oliver and he responds normally (with a high energy and enthusiasm).  Other times, new situations cause immense sensory overload for Oliver.  This overload creates an anxiety within Oliver that comes out in many different forms.  Today's overload caused Oliver to be frustrated, disobedient, and angry. 

Whenever I get nervous, my chest and neck turn bright red and I feel hot all over.  Today, as other children weren't sure how to respond to Oliver and as other parents tried to hide their concern behind their half smiles, I turned red.  Usually, between Bruce and myself, we can talk Oliver through situations.  Today, that was not the case.  Oliver simply could not contain himself. 

However, God is good and as we prayed several months ago about where to place Ollie and Will, it was quite apparent that HE had a plan for my little guys.  As it turns out, the teacher used to be a special ed teacher and is licensed as a child psychologist.  I had a long talk one on one with Oliver's teacher after everyone left and I could tell that she will be the kind of teacher to come along side Oliver and help him get to the next step.  I am so thankful for people like this in his and our lives.  She is also referring Oliver to their skilled team that will begin the process of implementing services such as speech, regular therapy, behavior skills, etc.  Also, after months of waiting, we finally have an appointment with our own private child therapist next month.  I am anxious to finally start walking down that road that leads to new parenting skills, new behavior skills, and a healthy, happy young boy.  In the mean time, I will sit by loving Oliver while sometimes feeling helpless.  I pray that the helplessness will soon be replaced by a plan, action, and results.  But mostly, I must rest in my own peace as I know God has a plan for this little boy. 

The Tooth Fairy

My William has always been a mover and a climber.  He began walking when he was 10 months old and when he was 10 months and 1 day (or so it seemed) he began climbing on everything. He was Houdini and he frightened me so.  Despite his innate ability to climb anything, William, however, was also very clumsy.  I didn't realize it so much when he was learning to walk because I naturally justified his falling to "normal progression."  In addition to being an early walker, Will's teeth also came in very early.  His top two teeth were so precious, but they stuck out very far. 
They stuck out so far, that every time Will fell he bumped his front two teeth.  When William was 1, he was running down our tiled hallway, and he tripped (on his own feet) and fell face down to the floor.  And staying with tradition, he bumped his teeth extremely hard causing much blood, chipped teeth, and making them loose.  This fall led to great pain for William.  So, we made our first visit to the dentist.  X-Rays were taken and his roots and nerves were slightly damaged, but we would have to wait a few weeks to see if the teeth would harden in place once again or if the nerve damage would become severe and the dentist would need to remove the teeth.  Well, we made it past the few weeks and the teeth were doing better and were only slightly loose. 

But Will continued to have a tendency to fall or bump his mouth on the table, the counter, his brothers' heads, or anything at his mouth's level.  Each time the bump caused blood (which is far more often that I would like to admit) we went to see the dentist.  I am so glad that we had a great dentist and that Will had not developed a fear because it felt like we almost lived at his office.  In fact, the front desk staff began to know my voice on the phone and would always arrange Dr. Stratton's schedule for us.  Our dentist would tease me saying that whenever Will falls, his teeth stick out further than his nose and that's why they get hurt.  Although he was exaggerating, it was still kind of true.  The inevitable finally occurred.....Will developed an abscess tooth and the dentist had to remove one of the teeth.  I was heart broken for many reasons.  Of course, the first being worried about Will's pain and Will developing a lifelong fear of the dentist.  My second, and I am ashamed to admit it, concern was the vanity issue.  Would he still be my cute Will with a tooth missing?  He wasn't even 2 yet, so I also feared that other people would assume that he had rotten teeth from my lack of care.  I know, totally silly stuff. 

But as you can see, he was still totally adorable cute with one tooth missing.  The dentist removed the tooth and Will was an excellent patient.  I was so proud of my little man.  After the extraction, Dr. Stratton sat me down and we went over the care procedures for the next couple of days.  At the end of the conversation, he said to me, "Now Mrs. Bennett, please try to keep Will from climbing."  It seemed that the dentist assumed that Will was being injured frequently because of my lack of proper attention.  Just after Dr. Stratton said that, Will walked into the office, being escorted by the hygienist, and Will tripped on his own foot and fell face forward into the desk.  Luckily, he still had so much gauze in his mouth and plenty of pain medication that he didn't feel a thing.  I think he even giggled a little.  I had been telling the dentist that Will was very clumsy, but now Dr. Stratton had witnessed it first hand.  His only reply was, "Never mind Mrs. Bennett." We both got a good chuckle and Will and I were on our way.   Until the next time.  The next time came only a few weeks later when Will bumped his tooth hard on Oliver's head.  Needless to say, the 2nd tooth came out.  The dentist and I decided that it was unnecessary to allow Will to continue to go through this and go ahead and pull out the tooth.  It was actually quite a relief because I no longer worried as much about his falls.  By the time William was 2 years old, he had been to the dentist more times that I can remember, had tons of x-rays, 2 teeth removed, and endless conversations with the dentist (Will loved Dr. Stratton).  Dr. Stratton reminds me of Dick Van Dyke by his appearance, smile, mannerisms, kindness, comedy, and general likability. 




Just love that toothless grin.

Will turned 5 in July so now having two teeth missing isn't all that unusual. Our family went to dinner the other evening and after William bit into his dinner, he made an awful face as if he were disgusted by what he was eating. He said that the had taken a bite that was hard and white and he spit it out to the ground. As I looked as his mouth while he was talking, I found the spot in his mouth where that "hard, white thing" should have been. Bruce immediately got on the ground underneath the table and found that itty bitty little tooth and I safely tucked it inside a napkin. Alas, he finally lost a baby tooth legitimately. There was no drama, no tears, no pain, no anything. He was just matter of fact about the whole thing. He was however, very excited that the tooth fairy would be visiting that evening. He was too young previously when his other teeth were extracted so this was the first time he got to experience the tooth fairy. Such fun times. A little sniffle on my part as I know this is just another milestone that means William is growing up.






Letting the Small Stuff Get in the Way

As a mother of 4 very busy, active, individual boys, it is so easy to get bogged down by the small stuff.  Army men in the Cheerios, which boy clogged the toilet THIS time, potty training my last child who is either extremely willful or I am extremely lazy, trying to figure out what that sticky substance is on the floor, what's for dinner tonight while secretly hoping that the electricity goes out  so that we can out to dinner, stepping on little dinosaurs that didn't get put away, re-assembling Lego Star Wars people until my fingers hurt, wondering when I will get some time to color all those grays that keep popping up; all of this while in my head wishing I could just wrinkle my nose like Samantha Stevens and make everything perfect in an instant.  Oh yeah, and also trying to make myself presentable by the end of the day so that Beau can come home to a wife that has it "all together."  I don't know why I keep trying to do this because Beau knows me better than I know myself and he knows what a chaotic mess is going on in my head....and still loves me anyway. 

An excerpt from a blog was sent to me this morning.  I have this sweet friend that reads and follows this blog and whenever she comes across something that she thinks would speak to me, she forwards it to me.  Goodness knows, she understands that I don't actually find much time to sit down and read the entire blog for myself but thankfully she sends me the stuff that I would love.  And so far, she has never been wrong.  The author of this blog is a real woman with 4 children, one who is adopted, and has been a missionary in Haiti.  But most importantly, she loves Christ, she loves her family, and she is blatantly honest.  I like that in people.  Transparency.  I strive to be that way too.  She if funny, endearing, cute, humble, and has a way with words.  I just know we would be best of buddies, if she even knew I existed.  LOL. 

Anyway, her recent blog was as follows: 

"The way I see it, if you have four kids, you don't really have to do anything else, ever. Three kids is a handful, but one that many people manage to hold. If you're a mother of four, you definitely don't have to have a career or volunteer for the school fund-raiser or even bring an appetizer to the dinner party. In fact, people give you a lot of credit for wearing both earrings and knowing how to spell chaos and antidepressant. Four kids gives you a pass for every forgotten birthday, overlooked appointment, and missing form. Plus, you can be late for everything the rest of your life and never return phone calls. Who's gonna blame you? It's like having nonthreatening cancer, forever." -- Kelly Corrigan in The Middle Place.
According to the author, Kelly Corrigan, I now have a built-in excuse for all my short comings.  Wow, I am so relieved.  Suddenly, my house doesn't look quite a messy as it did in my mind and perhaps I am tougher on myself than I should be.  As much as I loved that quote and even giggled a bit, I found the next quote thought provoking and convicting. 

 Corrigan says this about her dad...

"I think people like him because his default setting is open delight. He's prepared to be wowed - by your humor, your smarts, your white teeth, even your handshake - guaranteed, something you do is going to thrill him...People walk away from him feeling like they're on their game, even if they suspect that he put them there. He does that for me too. He makes me feel smart, funny, and beautiful, which has become the job of the few men who have loved me since. He told me once that I was a great talker. And so I was. I was a conversationalist, along with "creative," a notion he put in my head when I was in grade school and used to make huge, intricate collages from his old magazines. He defined me first, as parents do. Those early characterizations can become the shimmering self-image we embrace or the limited, stifling perception we rail against for a lifetime. In my case, he sees me as I would like to be seen. In fact, I'm not even sure what's true about me, since I have always chosen to believe his version."
Wow.  Wow.  Who doesn't want to be that kind of parent for their kids?  I started really thinking about this.  The more and more I try to manage my childrens' behaviors, the more I am stifling their identities.  Perhaps embracing and celebrating their quirky personalities would serve them better.  It is easy to worry about all the undesirable behaviors and believe me, some days it feels like all I witness are the undesirable behaviors.  Teenage hormones (enough said), 5 year old's need for investigating, 4 year old's need to figure EVERYTHING out and oh yeah, possibly has some form of autism, 3 year olds refusal to keep his new Toy Story underwear dry and has a quick temper.  But all the while, I am missing the things that make my children special. 

So, as I become drained daily by the little things, I hope that I can remember this quote from Kelly Corrigan.  I want to be the kind of parent that inspires my kids and shows them the love of God.

Florida Vacation Part II

On Sunday evening, we said goodbye to our beloved MaNew in New Smyrna Beach and headed to Clermont to get checked into our cabin on the lake.  We stayed in a cabin here at Lake Louisa 4 years ago with some friends when we were just a family of 4.  We had such a great time playing cards, swimming in the lake, and canoeing.  But this time, we were returning to the cabin as a family of 6.  It's amazing to see how God has changed us during the last 4 years.....our obedience, our faith, and our family.  All of this through HIS grace, mercy, and everlasting love. 

Anyway, we arrived very late Sunday evening and put everyone to bed.  Then Beau and I stayed up getting everything settled and ready for our big day at Sea World.  We were up early, stopped for breakfast, and got to Sea World early (well, Bennett early).  It's kind of slow getting 6 people dressed, fed, parked, and into Sea World.  But we did it.

In the beginning, our family separated for a couple of hours.  Zander and I LOVE roller coasters so he and I rode all the rides that the little boys couldn't.  Beau, for those of you who don't know this, doesn't ride because they make him ill.  When we were first married, I talked him into riding various roller coasters with me.  He was willing then because he and I were "newlyweds", however, after I saw the after effects, I don't ask anymore.  I am just glad that I finally have a riding partner in Zander.  We were so lucky because the park wasn't overly crowded and Zander and I were able to ride the coasters more than once without much wait.  We actually did all the things we wanted to (except for one certain roller coaster that I couldn't talk Zander into riding) in a 2 hour time frame.....which is unheard of in most parks. 

Beau and the boys enjoyed 2 shows while Zander and I rode our coasters.  According to Beau, the boys did great, sat still, and really enjoyed the shows.  However, this picture was taken while waiting for the first show to begin.   You can see they aren't very enthusiastic about the wait.  One of the shows they got to see was the Clyde and Seamore show (which is one of my favorites).  Sorry I missed it and I am especially sorry I didn't get to see the boys' expressions while watching it for the first time themselves.   But I am glad that they got to see it and I was thankful for the time with Zander.  

Gotta Love Sesame Street

Then we met up as a family and watched the Shamu show.  This is a phenomenal sight to watch something that large move with such grace and yet the strength of the killer Orca whale is overwhelming.  It was during this show that we sat behind 6 retired ladies who found my boys endearing.  They found out it was Will's birthday that day, so each lady gave all 3 boys a dollar.  They were so excited holding their little wad of cash.  We intentionally sat in the "soak zone" during this show so that we could cool down.  The only incident that we encountered was somehow, Shamu missed our zone and we didn't get wet.   Oliver had a little bit of a meltdown because he was excited about getting splashed. 

We then went to the kiddie area so the little ones could release some of their energy.  They had an absolute blast here.  I will admit, it was a little hard to keep up with all 3 of them because they all went in different directions.  Those little guys are fast!!!  They climbed, they played in the water, they played on the pirate ship, and played hide and seek.  But by this time of the day, the heat and grumbling tummies were too much to bear.  We finally had to leave the kids area and search for food.  The only time it rained our entire day at the park was when we were eating our late lunch.  The rest of our day was uninterrupted by inclement weather, which is unusual for Florida summers. 

After this, we spent the rest of our time in the park riding things that the kids could ride.  We were so fortunate that there was hardly any line and very short wait times to enter these rides....which is unusual.  But the boys got to ride some of their favorites rides multiple times.  We learned that they are quite the dare devils.   We closed down the park and made our way to the exit just as they were closing the gates.  We survived our first large theme park with all members of the family.  We had no injuries, no tears, and no regrets. 

We spent the next few days in our little cabin on the lake enjoying some downtime.  Unfortunately it rained most of our time there, so our canoeing didn't happen.  My parents stayed in a cabin next to us and we enjoyed spending time with them.  We celebrated William's 5th birthday, spent some time at downtown Disney, and watched the rain from our porch. 

Sadly, our 9 day family vacation came to an end and it was time to pack up and head back to New Hampshire.  Beau and I were apprehensive about taking the family on this trip with so many new adventures, but all in all, we had a great time.  But like all vacations, you have to return to reality!! 

Florida Vacation Part I

Almost one year ago, I moved away from a home, town, church, family, and friends that I love so very much.  Over this past year, I have yearned to be home.  The opportunity came and I was excited.  Beau took 2 weeks off of work and my parents graciously paid for the plane tickets so that all 6 of us could visit Florida. 

It takes much preparation to vacation with a large family, especially when 3 of them are 5 years old and younger.  But, I made my numerous lists and began organizing early.  Sadly, I enjoyed the organizing and planning (that's the part of me that my family teases me about). 

Beau and I began praying about the plane trip weeks ago.  None of the little boys had ever flown and Oliver doesn't handle any new situations very well.  Needless to say, we simply didn't know what each of their reactions was going to be.  We have heard news reports where families were thrown off of planes because their children wouldn't settle down.  We didn't want to be one of those families.  God had his hand on this whole trip.  The boys handled the entire trip through the airport, going through security, and riding on the airplane with excellent behavior, obedience, and calmness.  Beau and I said there were 7 obstacles we had to clear on this day, and already we had successfully cleared 5 of them.  I had prepared each boy with their own backpack filled with fun new things and yummy snacks that they don't usually get at home (like fruit roll ups, gushers, and their favorite candy).  Yes, there were some healthy things in their backpacks too.  They each had their V-Reader with new story cartridges and a set of earphones.  At the last minute, Beau bought a little portable DVD player too.  We were as prepared as possible.  And each of the big people had their assigned "hand buddy" as well.  Beau was in charge of Carter, I was in charge of Oliver, and Zander was in charge of William. 

This is just after we landed in the Orlando Airport and waiting for Beau to retrieve our luggage. 

As the plane took off, Oliver and Carter literally giggled.  They loved the exhilaration of the lift off.  Will, however, smiled big while holding onto daddy's hand tightly.  The 3 hour plane flight went smoothly and the boys were so well behaved. 

Our last 2 obstacles remained;  getting our luggage and securing our rental car.  Other than waiting over an hour for our reserved rental car with 3 very anxious boys, the 7 obstacles were tackled and completed.  Whew.  Now for the fun.

We were instantly hit with the Florida heat and immediately missed our New Hampshire climate.  Already dripping in sweat from the heat and humidity, we were eager to get into our air conditioned van.  We drove from Orlando to Orange Park so that we could make a stop by my parents house.  My boys have always loved their Nana and Poppy.  It is always a comforting feeling to be in the house where I grew up. 

Our first night there, we had dinner at Brian and Suzi's house.  It was so fun to see Riley.  He is such a sweet and happy little boy.  He and Will got along so well and they weren't ready to separate when it was time to go.  Carter and Riley are only 2 days apart.  Sure did enjoy our visit.  Great food, great company, and great cousin time.   

The next day was 4th of July and our family and our best friends enjoyed a cookout at my parents house.  My parents graciously cooked for us and we had a blast.  We got to enjoy good old fashioned Southern potato salad and banana pudding, 2 things you just can't get in New England.  We literally spent the entire day in the pool. 



Zander is smiling just before Beau dunks him. 

Just chillin'

Carter loves Jarod

So does Will

Carter was still scared of the water, so Zander was helping him.

Everybody's here, except Carter

Later that evening, we went to the Franklins for some leftovers and time to catch up.  The Franklin home has always been our second home.  I am so thankful that distance and time have not changed our relationship. 

Carter was so exhausted from a day of swimming and sun, that he had no problem taking Russell's chair to sleep.  Sorry Russ, but thanks for sharing!

Zander got to spend the night with his best friend, Jarod.  They have been buds since Zander was 6.  Zander and Jarod love each other like brothers and I am thankful for their friendship. 

The next day, Cami and I had our annual "Birthday Lunch" together at The Loop.  This is always a cherished time because we get to have uninterrupted time to catch up.  Some of the best fun a person can have is spending it with a like-minded Christian friend where your relationship is based on encouragement, support, honesty, transparency, and all centered around Christ. 

Cami is this friend for me.  I can be a total brat and know that she will not judge me.  She can be brutally honest with me and I don't take offense.  Sometimes when I am struggling with something, Beau will ask me, "Have you talked to Cami yet?".  Beau knows that even though she usually has the same advice as he, I will sometimes listen to her more easily.  I am stubborn, impatient, and sometimes a mess, but Cami consistently points me back to the Bible.  I am so thankful for our friendship. 

Of course, this picture was taken at one of our favorite places....Hobby Lobby.  And, I didn't even spend a dime while I was here. 



I also got to spend time with some other very special ladies that evening.  I went to dinner with Lauren, Betsi, and Tina.  I love these ladies.  Lauren was my maid of honor and my friend since college and I met Tina and Betsi through her.  I have been so blessed to have a special relationship with these ladies.  We always have a good time together.  We may get a little loud sometimes, but we always have fun. 

The next day, I spent time at my parents house with the kids.  Beau met some old friends for lunch and he enjoyed that time.  I also got to see another one of my dear friends, Patty.  She's a special lady because she, like Cami, was willing to get background checked for the foster agency so that she could occasionally watch my children when I had to go to court or doctor's appointments.  Her son, Josh, is also a best friend with Zander.  Josh and Zander spent the day together doing one of their favorite things....video games. 

On Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of inspecting our home that is currently occupied by tenants.  I could not have been more pleased.  When we first put our house on the market, a market that had way too many rental homes and a market where the prices for rent were considerably low, Beau and I began to pray.  We were totally trusting God with this whole decision.  Carter's adoption had not even been finalized and we were still not completely sure it was even going to happen.  But we had a peace about putting the house on the market.  I heard God say "Trust me".  Of course Beau was in New Hampshire, so preparing the home was up to me.  This is a special home to us because we felt led to buy this house and this is the home where we fostered and adopted our little ones.  So many special memories here. 

We listed the house with my friend whom I worked for for several years in the Property Management business.  Although I am a licensed Real Estate Broker and worked in the property management business for 13 years, renting my own home was a little scary.  We listed it, had one viewing, and the property rented with a 2 year lease for full asking price.  If that's not a God thing, I don't know what is.  Within the same week of the house getting rented, we finally had our date for Carter's finalization.  Again, such God timing.  Anyway, the walkthru went extremely well.  The house was immaculate, well maintained, and no signs of any damage.  The tenants were delightful and obviously cared for our home.  The tenants had even made some improvements to the home.  They have 5 small dogs, and yet, no smell or damage.  They are making arrangements to hopefully buy the home in 2 years and we are now praying about that.   God has completely protected us in our obedience to Him. 

Also on this day, Beau, Zander, and Will left for Pensacola for a very special event.  Beau's brother and sister-in-law asked him to be their son's Godfather.  Beau was so honored and felt privileged to be a part of the Baptism.  Beau is now the proud Godfather to Brett Wesley Bennett, Jr.  We love that little guy so much.  Will and his cousin, Brylee had a great time and bonded well.  For the rest of our vacation, Will wanted to go back to see Uncle Brett and his cousin Brylee.  So cute. 



Michelle, Lil Brett, Brylee, and Brett-we just love this family.

We spent 5 very quick days in Orange Park.  Not nearly enough time to see everyone we wanted to and do all the things that we wanted to.  But now it was time to visit our Daytona family.  We met Grandma and Grandpa (Beau's dad and step-mom) at a park.  Will had no trouble striking up a conversation with Grandpa.  

Norman Rockwell-esque?

After the park, we went to MaNew's house.  This is Beau's grandmother on his mom's side.  She is one of those grandmothers that everybody loves and her house is always open to her grand kids and great grand kids.  Her home has always been everyone's home.  Many memories with MaNew.  She likes to play card games (and wins most of the time.  Don't let her sweet exterior fool you, she is ruthless).  She has a hug waiting for each child, big or small.  Her lap is always available for a little one to climb into.  Her frig is always stocked.  Her smile is always genuine.  We love our MaNew. 


This sign is hanging on MaNew's front door...and it is so true.

Carter has always been Beau's little buddy.  Beau finally got Carter to relax in the pool at MaNew's and Carter even swam around in his float all by himself.  Look at those handsome smiles. 



 A little bit of MaNew lovings. 

William is almost always cold.  He only has about 5 degrees of weather in which he is comfortable.  Seeing MaNew and Aunt Donna was a great way to end our Daytona time.  Our next stop, Orlando.  That will be in a follow up blog because this is getting far too long.