Rebecca's Joy

In April, I went to the local garden center to buy the indestructible plants. I went straight to the hail, snow, wind, severe weather native plant section and bought Columbine and Lupine to supplement my poor Colorado gardening skills. Lo and behold, not even a week post planting them in the ground, there was a torrential hail and snow storm. I fully expected the Columbine to be decimated, but instead it was still standing tall. Life often brings storms and torrential weather into our lives, but the beauty of these calamities is that storms build resilience and strength. A tiny oak seed will not be able to withstand a strong wind, but over time, its roots are shaped and developed by the harsh climate and extreme temperatures to adapt and even thrive, because it has been tested.

I feel strongly that my life trials have pushed me to the brink of what I think may be destructive, only to build perseverance, grit, and endurance. At times, I am still knocked over, downcast, and distraught, because life is hard. I recently heard Jordan Peterson say that the people with the most fulfilling lives go through difficulties. A soul stirring observation. How can one truly live the only life they will ever be given, confined to fear and reclusive behavior? How can one grow if they are not pushed to the end of themselves? What would life be if sacrifice did not teach one the true joy of giving to the emptying of ones own desires and goals, to secretly build something greater in someone else without applause, or to be the guest at a table because you took the risk to be a friend instead of a stranger.

May feels like a frenzy of exhaustion, exhilaration, and adrenaline. I started the month with literacy testing, and ended with a gaggle of houseguests and a bbq with our newest next door neighbors.

Throughout the month of May, Frank continued to recover and reached the half way point of his time off work. He went to church the first Sunday in May, with crutches and a brace, and was walking without support from the car on the last Sunday. We continue to marvel and praise the Lord with the good gifts He has granted us thus far in Frank’s recovery process. The full recovery period is about six to nine months, but we will take every highlight as a step in the right direction. A few times throughout this journey, he has been rollin’ through Costco or Walmart in a motorized chair, and living the dream.

I wrapped up my journey with the kindergarteners. Our classroom received a new rug that looks like a sunshine from the PTO. It perfectly encapsulates what a kindergarten class should be-warm and sunny with joyful memories. The last days were a test of perseverance in wrapping up report cards, writing reports for the children’s future teachers, and making sure all the administrative tasks were executed. It was also bittersweet knowing Jody, our wonderful principal, was moving on to a new administrative role in academic affairs. At the same time, what a joy to know Erin will be stepping into the role of principal. Frank helped me put together 35 bubble wand presents, and helped however he could with the little things.

I took a tea sandwiches class, and am hoping to develop a set of tea party skills to be able to host ladies for tea parties in our home.

We also hosted some a new family from our church. They were needing a temporary place to stay while looking for a home. We took them to some very special places such as Scheels, Garden of the Gods, Heart of Jerusalem Cafe, the Dutch bakery, the Thunderbirds at Scheels and Territory Days.

Takoda and Tahlia made it on TV! The Thunderbirds were set to fly over the Air Force Academy. While Scheels was setting up for the party, the pups were filmed and featured on KRDO. Here’s their debut.

We are starting to transfer all of our materials over to Night Light Adoption. With the blessing of a transfer, the process should be straightforward. I am anticipating updating you at some point this summer of our portfolio being back on track for presenting to birth families.

Wishing you and yours a blessed summer!

Warm regards,

Rebecca and Frank