Spring in Texas is magical. Wild flowers pop up everywhere. The most benign and overlooked places are now gorgeous and have become destinations painted in flowers of blue blue bonnets, orange Indian paint brush blooms, and yellow wild flowers. Texas has given my soul space to bloom. I remember for years in the beginning of our marriage, I would cry to Marc how I felt I had nothing to offer or add to my family and really the world or my world. All the “jobs” and needs were being filled. Or it was someone else’s “job”. Shauna was the cook and she fed people and peoples souls. Abby was the life of the party and brought joy. Jordann exudes talent and ability from hair, to home, organization and art. McKay is the smart and athletic one. And Dad is the king of consistency in work and faith and family. There was nothing for me. I had nothing to bring to the table to contribute or add; nothing to give.

In Texas without being so close, I allowed myself space in trying those things I had previously “assigned” to others. And in homesick moments, trying the skills I previously assigned to my family members helped me feel at home while stepping into their shoes and skill sets. I learned how to bake and find joy in feeding others. I learned how to find the joy in the simple moments and point them out and share them with my kids and others. I love driving and showing my kids, “Look how beautiful the clouds are today.” I can bring the party to the everyday. I let my self organize and find order. I laugh that my Texas friend think of me as this amazing hair lady and the queen of little girl braids. I have learned so many new skills including how to learn, how my children learn, how to teach and do homeschool and life school. I’ve learned the value in knowing how to read and write but also to know how to peel and cut carrots and potatoes to make dinner and how to pray. And I am consistent, even in my short comings. I can, through my small daily efforts, have a clean home, take care of my health and my families and most important build a strong testimony in Jesus and a home where others feel safe and welcome.