Here we go again . . .

It would almost be unjust to not start this post with a 'where in the world has the time gone?' or some such segue. Sort of like I just did . . .

I have to admit the thought has flitted through my mind (the past 16 months) to attempt a short post, a paragraph, or at the very least put this poor blog out of its misery. I mean surely I'm using up some sort of mysterious data storage that could go to much better use. But obviously I've done neither. So here's my attempt to once again maintain a blog.

I don’t have anything profound to share today, but I have been thinking a lot recently of just how extremely good God is to me and how ridiculously blessed I am. So this post will be a quick look at the goings on of our life.

And it’s changed. A lot.

My Mom, who many of you may recall, suffers with Parkinson’s disease. Suffer is putting it mildly. It is a debilitating disease that shows no mercy. The goal, and the struggle, is to attempt to stay one step ahead of it. I’ve watched it take a woman who never understood the concept of ‘quit’ and force her to strive just to get up and go. Medications are a blessing. And the one thing it hasn’t been able to change is her heart and her love for her family. And we continue on.

Our son, Michael, is still living in Daytona and continuing his education as a full-time student. He found a love for body building while serving in the United States Navy, has carried it forward, competed in and won his first competition – his weight class, plus overall. Huge personal goal and accomplishment for him. He’s currently training himself for his third competition, completely solo, and will be a force to be reckoned with - because this was round one ...

But most importantly, he married our beautiful daughter-in-law, Kristina, in August with a hometown wedding adding another special member to our family. She graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree this month and will soon be headed back for her Master’s. I’m trying to bite my tongue and not lay the pressure on ‘too hard’ regarding babies . . . it ain’t working.

Our baby, Amanda, became a mom in September. I know! Still can’t believe it. She gave birth to our first grandson, Bennett Lane. He is 8 months old now, absolutely perfect and the true example of what can turn two grandparents into total mush. Oh my gosh. It is impossible to describe the love I have for this boy. You’ll definitely be hearing more about him…

Bennett’s dad, our son-in-law, Brandon, has been able to come home from the military life to work at home full-time. He is a Distributor for AdvoCare (a premier health and wellness company) helping others to improve their health and financial goals. So not only will his feet remain on American soil, but also in our home town. He’s made it possible for Amanda to become a full-time stay at home mom also and that definitely makes this mom and Nana happy.

Hold onto your hats for this one . . . our first grandchild, Samantha, is engaged! So when I ask ‘where did the time go’ I mean it - literally. It seems unfathomable that this child is grown, much less engaged! So this next year will be full of wedding plans and preparations. Here we go again!! Sammie also completed courses to become a CNA and is currently treating patients much like my mom. I am so extremely proud of the caring heart she has for others.

As for me and the hubs? We’re just keepin’ on keepin’ on. And where in the world we got the idea that ‘life after kids’ would be slower and more relaxed I have no idea. I just know I'm loving it. :)

Promising to be back soon,

Shelia