When Things Come Full Circle

Life has been difficult this week. Lots of sickness in our household but we are managing. I didn't want to whine about the things we can't change but thought I would share with you a moment of silver lining in the midst of it all.

If you recall, Megan had a tremendously difficult time adjusting to preschool when it began last fall. It was a very frustrating season for both me and her. I was worried we would be labeled "those parents" and she would continue to consistantly paint us into that picture. However things have gotten better and this week when she had to stay home from preschool because of a stomach flu she cried. Not because she had to go but because she couldn't go!

It's a beautiful thing when life comes full circle!

Another Year or More Experienced...?

I celebrated my 28th birthday on Tuesday. It was a nice, quiet celebration with family...and a Rio Margarita - YUM! I got to thinking though, that I don't feel a day older than 18, and somehow 10 years have slipped by since then. I'm married, I have 2 kids, and my life has taken turns I never expected it too.

When I was young, my birthday represented another year! I was so excited to be one year older. That excitement kinda wained at 21. Now I'm thinking that as each year passes I'm not getting any older, I'm just more experienced - right?!:) I think when I turn 40 I'll tell people I'm celebrating many years of experience and that I'm still only 20 at heart. I might grow up a couple years by then:)!

P.S. (If you want another view of my life, I've been sucked into myspace. You can view "myspace" at www.myspace.com/mariontuin

Priceless

1 Beginner's Ballet Class for Megan $108
1 Registration for Ballet Recital $40
1 Pair of Dance Shoes $10
1 Leotard $11
1 Ballet Skirt $8
A Pair of tights $5

45 minutes once a week for 3 months of dance rehersal.

Watching the new ballerina take the stage for the first time...

PRICELESS!

Bittersweet New Years Day

Let me begin by wishing you all a Happy New Year.

Eric and I rang in the new year uneventfully last night:). We went to a party until the kids were absolutely exhausted and then came home and spent the last two hours of 2006 together quietly on the couch. I had to wake Eric up for my New Year's kiss at midnight but it was still very sweet.

This morning I was thinking about how nice a new year is. That it is fresh with no mistakes, regrets, etc. It is full of opportunity and promise. A new year can be whatever we make of it. I sat down at the computer to work on some birthday wish list requests as I was thinking of this and was stunned to discover the news that Darrent Williams, a Denver Bronco Cornerback was killed this morning in a drive by shooting (above title has link to team press release). I'm a HUGE fan of the Broncos and was actually googling team jersey's to ask for for my birthday when I stumbled upon the news.

Though I didn't know the guy I feel like I did. I'm sure many fans in Denver feel the same. It is wierd to know that not even 12 hours ago I was watching him play. Realizing the impact one life can have on millions - an athlete who showed up and played well for two seasons - has impacted my life. I'm saddened that his life, his goals, his career were abruptly cancelled. I'm saddened that there is a presence of evil in this world that causes others pain and suffering and I'm motivated to make my life count in this new year. I want to show up in the lives of the people closest to me and live well. If I can benefit and work hard for the people around me just as Darrent Williams did for the Denver Bronco's and for our city and state (cause most of us LOVE Bronco football!!) I will have kept my new year's resolution - maybe a lifetime resolution.

My condolances to the entire Denver Bronco organization at this time and to Darrent Williams family. I know words cannot heal, but my prayers for God's healing and comfort are sent with these words.