Just so much going on. I don't mean in the busy sense of the word (though that is true, too). Just so much going on in the heart and mind. Good things, bad things, exciting things, scary things, uncertain things. Sometimes I just let my mind get so caught up that I think I forget to breath. Forget to stop and look at things in perspective. Stop and realize that this moment, this day, this week, are such a small part of the whole. Yes...things may be fun and exciting and scary and uncertain. But I don't need to let myself become overwhelmed with the emotion. Perspective. I need some of that.
Today is our day off (though we always refer to it as our family day). We decided it would be best to get away...really get away. So, we are getting a bunch of stuff done at home this morning and then this afternoon we are checking ourselves into a nice suite hotel here in Orlando. When we get away we focus on each other more, enjoy one another more. The kids love hotels (and so do we!) It will be good to have some space. We come back on duty tomorrow at 4pm so it will be a nice long break. Which should be good because...
It is going to be an emotional return. One of our boys is being released today. It is hard because I know the home situation of this boy is horrendous. On the other hand, I know it was the best decision (though it wasn't ours) because of the effect this boy has on the rest of the boys. With him gone, I think the other boys will start to do better. It's sad though. It feels like we are giving up on this kid who has nothing going for him. He would be so much better off being here, but we can't sacrifice the other six we have for the one. The other boys are going to be really upset (and surprised) so I am sure it will be a long and emotional weekend. I love that God's mercies are new every morning. I need a nice new heaping dose today :)
__________
On the scrapping front -- I have done a bunch lately but unfortunately it isn't anything I can show you. I have stuff for some soon-to-be-released kits, for the digi dares, and a bunch of stuff for CK. I have one more big project to finish up for them and then I think I will be free and clear for a while to just scrap for fun and be able to share with you.
I am starting to get excited about my trip to Vegas for SOY. I don't think Jason is going to be able to go with me (because of work) so I am really bummed about that. But the trip should be great anyway. They have me booked in a room HERE and the hotel alone makes me excited to go! LOL! The other finalists and I have been chatting via a message board so it is fun to get to know each of them a little better. They are such a talented bunch -- and not just in scrapping. Fun to talk with others who share your passion.
And speaking of message boards, I know...I haven't been around anywhere lately. Not at DST, not at MSA, no where. It's just one thing that I had to let go of when we started working again. There are only so many hours in the day and reading message boards just cannot be on the top of my list of priorities. I am sad that I haven't "seen" some of you around lately. Feel free to drop me a note! I email!
Well, I should get started on my day. Lots to do before we leave. Have a great Thursday!
Have a WONDERFUL time away, I'm glad you guys are getting off Ranch, it will be good for you. And while it will be hard to have E released, I totally agree that it's what everyone needed (you, the boys, etc.). We can't save him from his home forever and he does know the truth. So we rely and trust on God's promises that we are to train the child up in the way he should go . . . and sometime, maybe even a long time away, when he is old, he won't depart from it. You guys are doing amazing, keep up the good & hard work!
Posted by: Erika | August 23, 2007 at 08:59 PM
Wow-what amazing work you do. My husband counsels adolescents with substance abuse and depression issues so I can imagine the emotional toll this takes on you. On a positive note, the Venetian is an amazing hotel and I am sure you will love your visit! As I have read your blog and followed your work for some time now, I find your work and your outlook truly inspirational and am thrilled that you are a finalist for SOY!
Posted by: Ashly | August 23, 2007 at 09:11 PM
So sorry to hear about losing a boy, but just know that you have not really lost him - God is holding him! How cool that you get to go to a local awesome hotel just to hang out as a family - do you get these "days" off once a week or more like once a month? Have fun - enjoy the family time!
Posted by: MandaKay | August 23, 2007 at 09:21 PM
I love your writting! that first paragrapha alone... good stuff!
Anyway, good luck with the kids, it is sad to hear you have to let one go, I hope everything works out all right!
I would love to have you at the forums, but I totally understand we dont have 40 hour days, I needed the extra time too, if I wasnt on so many CTs I wouldnt do so many forums hehe
Cant wait to see new layouts from you :)
Posted by: Michelle Filo | August 23, 2007 at 09:46 PM
I hear ya! And can pray for you all. Hope your family day is blessed indeed.
Posted by: Jacki | August 23, 2007 at 09:52 PM
I hope that you are able to just completely enjoy getting away for a bit! I am sorry to hear about the boy, but I'm sure it's the best decision!
Can't wait to see all your new projects!
Posted by: Melissa | August 24, 2007 at 01:23 AM
That hotel is gorgeous and it has a great location on the strip! When abouts is your trip? It all sounds very exciting!
Posted by: Laura | August 24, 2007 at 04:20 AM
Janet, you will love The Venetian. I think it's one of the most beautiful and luxurious in town. Marci
Posted by: Marci | August 24, 2007 at 06:16 AM
The Venetian, that is so stinking cool! Enjoy yourself sweet lady. And I'll send some extra {hugs} your way for the boys.
Posted by: LauraKaye | August 24, 2007 at 06:53 AM
HI janet, not sure if I ever commented on your blog before, I just wanted to say you guys are awesome for what you do!! How I would LOVE to do what you do, but really have no idea where to start or even if I have the right "tools" to help. I don't want to fail, I especially wouldn't want to fail kids that have been failed before. But anywho, you guys are awesome in my book. Manda, my SIL, even said you were awesome!! LOL. Praying for you, your family, and your boys! :)
The venetian is amazing!! You have to go on a gondola ride. I forgot how much they cost, put it's totally cool. They sing to ya and everything!! LOL I have a ton of pictures of the interior...it's so beautiful!!
Posted by: Nina_VK | August 25, 2007 at 03:51 AM
I'm so sad for you that Jason can't come to Vegas with you! Hey, if you ever need another hotel buddy, I'm yours! :)
I hope this weekend went well...I hope you were able to relax some & that the boys are transitioning well.
I think about you often!!
Posted by: KellieP | August 27, 2007 at 12:39 PM