Marriage is not martyrdom

Parenting is not martyrdom

Life for Christ is

But it is also meant to be lived with gusto 

Balance 

Wisdom

Boundaries 

Tasting and savoring the sweetness of life

Laying it down at the foot of the cross.

It’s not a paradox 

It is wholehearted living.

Taking time to rest. To be present. 

Taking time to recharge. 

This gives us fuel to run the race well.

I get over my daughters pleading to come home

Tearfully calling me on face time 

It is because for three years I have been present every moment she needed me. 

It is hard to grow up

And some lessons are uncomfortable 

Like this one

That mommy prioritizes her marriage 

I tell them: you will grow up fast

And you will want to go find yourself

And I will happily let you fly the nest

Because I have learned to live my own life 

while helping you build yours.