If you follow those Twitter updates in the sidebar, you know that we're in Phoenix. Toben flew out Sunday night, the girls and I flew in yesterday afternoon. And it was 106 when we landed. Hot, but not as bad as I expected to tell the truth.
We're really moving.
Somehow it's all seeming real to me all of the sudden. Not sure if it was walking through Target last night for toothbrushes and thinking This will me our Target, or if it was talking to my mom on the phone long distance, or driving past what will be our library. But it's all really happening.
I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. Could also be that I didn't sleep well. And every part of my body hurts. (Today will be day 3 of the 30-Day Shred if I can work up the energy to do it.) And that I haven't had any coffee yet this morning.
I think I'm rambling.
The girls and I are going to run a few errands this morning after we drop Toben off (I ran out of time yesterday morning--perhaps from losing my mind and going on a super cleaning binge just hours before needing to leave for the airport) and then later today we have an appointment to go see the house we're pretty sure we're going to rent.
Yes, I have my camera. And, yes, I'll take lots of pictures.
I was going to sign off here, but I've gotta tell you that I'm also feeling overwhelmed as a mom. Would you pray for me? Audrey and I have gone through cycles in the past where we really struggle with each other. It's been good for a long time, but the past week or so has been hard. I'm sure it's the stress of everything that's going on for both of us, but it feels so bad.
My reading this morning was out of Titus 3--all about doing good. Would you pray that I do the good I need to with her. That I don't just think about what I should do or say to encourage her, but that I would actually JUST DO IT!
Thanks.
I'll lift all of you up in prayer. Moving is stressfull and with kids double that but just take it one step at the time.
Posted by: Bobbie Jo | May 19, 2009 at 07:58 AM
I have a 14 year old daughter and can relate. They are just trying to grow up and we as moms just want to hold on a little longer. Good luck with the move and with Audra. I am sure after everything settles down, life will become calm again.
Posted by: Cheryl | May 19, 2009 at 09:54 AM
Prayed for you and Audrey-girl just now. That God would scatter some sweet moments throughout your day. Love you!
Posted by: Marla Taviano | May 19, 2009 at 09:56 AM
Oh, the joys of parenting a 10-year old girl. I'm so right there with you. I'm thankful the Lord has given me some much-needed patience & perspective in that area just in this past week.
Posted by: Melissa @ Breath of Life | May 19, 2009 at 10:20 AM
Joanne, I'm praying for all of you as you move into this new chapter of life. 10 is tough - not quite a little girl and yet not a teen. Plus, she's probably starting to have some of those lovely female hormones floating around on top of the stress of moving.
Can hardly wait to see pictures of your new home! Blessings!!!
PS - You're note yesterday about 106? At first I thought you were posting a grade and I was so proud of you! Then I realized your were talking about the temp and I felt so sorry for you! Ha!
Posted by: Dawn W | May 19, 2009 at 10:38 AM
I've not commented before but I too have a daughter named Audrey. We have been having a lot of struggles this past year. She's 13. I know what it's like to problems between mom and daughter. We have good days and bad. But we are getting through. We moved to the country last year and she is a people person. So she misses seeing people...we lived in small towns before. Just a combination of everything with growing up and throw on top of that being adopted. Will be thinking of you all.
Posted by: Mindy | May 19, 2009 at 11:29 AM
Praying for you, dear friend!
I actually have been thinking about you and your journey and praying for you the past two days and had no idea you were in Phoenix.
Posted by: Holly @ Crownlaiddown | May 19, 2009 at 11:40 AM
The best advice I can share is to keep her close...do things with her...all things if, but if that sounds like too much, than most things...lol. It works...she will become your bestest friend and she yours.
I am enjoying going on this journey with you...do share your new digs!
Peggy
Posted by: Peggy | May 19, 2009 at 11:53 AM
Hi Joanne - 106...a balmy spring day in Phoenix! But it's a dry heat, right? When people used to tell me that, I always wanted to reply "...well, so is a welding torch!"
Hope you like your new digs and neighborhood! I'll be praying for you.
Adrienne
Posted by: fuzzytop | May 19, 2009 at 02:14 PM
And how about I tell myself that as well!
Amen!
Kim Feth
Apex, NC
Posted by: Kim Feth | May 19, 2009 at 04:55 PM
Where are you in Phx. I grew up in Tempe/Mesa/Chandler/Gilbert so I can maybe give ya some fun tips... I know it's hot, but just stay indoors and you will be fine. Get your swimmin in now!
As for you and your girl, I will be prayin. I know that is hard. As a youth leader for years I have seen many a mom go through it, but it will all wash out in the end. It WILL be ok.
Have a BLAST on this adventure!!!
Posted by: Becky Jo | May 19, 2009 at 05:04 PM
See, I told you it wouldn't be as bad as it sounds. :) May can be very nice. Perhaps sometimes a little on the toasty side, but nice.
I am walking the same mother/daughter road with you. It is not a sprint, but a marathon. It feels like we've just barely started--and I am already winded. (Just like real life!) But so nice to know that there are others running along beside us isn't it? And a Heavenly Father passing out water bottles and power bars in all the right places. Although I think that moving is a bit like getting a rock in one's shoe...
Posted by: Stephanie | May 19, 2009 at 06:00 PM
I remember being that age and all the grief I caused my mom sometimes. I would love to go back in time and do it all over! But even in those hard times I loved her and appreciated her. I didn't always let her know that though! So I'll be praying for you and Audrey. I think you are an amazing mom...and I'm sure she does too!
Can't wait to see pictures...hope you're having a great time:)
Posted by: Tammy S. | May 19, 2009 at 08:04 PM
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Audrey loves you and you are a GREAT mom. That fact does not make it any less exhausting physically and emotionally. Praying for you and Audrey.
See you soon. I will have a few cakes in hand :) enjoy your time with your family.
Hugs!
Kristin
Posted by: KristinF | May 19, 2009 at 08:33 PM
Asking God to fill you and Audrey with love and understanding for each other (and grace, lots of grace)! Praying too for you to have wisdom as you parent. Hugs!
Posted by: Holly B. | May 20, 2009 at 02:46 AM
Read this today:
"Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it."
Colossians 3:13-14, The Message
Hope it encourages you!
Posted by: Holly B. | May 20, 2009 at 02:59 AM
How did you cool off when you arrived? This happened a long time ago, but I can still imagine how difficult it must have been for you to go through that. I hope their prayers were answered! :D
Posted by: Dell Ledermann | December 27, 2011 at 05:53 AM