Mom or Marine Biologist?

Why didn't I decide to become a Marine biologist or a professional whitewater rapids guide? I could have at least considered the field of archeology or even horticulture. What possessed me to think I could ever be qualified to be a mother, much less the mother of teenagers. Nobody told me they turned into teenagers! Shouldn't that be something talked about in premarital counseling when you discuss family stuff? I'm feeling a little desperate here. Anyone have a paper bag? I have to tell you that there is not a compass to be found to help navigate the turbulent waters of hormones or even a decent map to guide you along the uneven terrain of emotions. You think being in the dark, standing on a cliff, or even facing a spider will terrify you? Try walking into a teenagers bedroom unannounced. The smell itself will make you scream like a girl (or a mad momma). Can anyone say "Corn chips"? What made me think I could translate "teen talk" into English? Did you know that dating isn't even a word anymore. It's called "talking". "Hola" means call me later. And "Jola" means whatever. And I can't even get into the whole thing of text messaging. I'm just here to tell you that we have a whole generation of carpal tunnel syndrome just waiting to happen. Did you know that those sweet babies actually grow into these teenagers faster than the speed of light. Or at least faster than I did. Right, Mom? I know that if you are reading this blog right now and you have little ones, you think that I am full of bologna. I remember thinking that it would be easier if they were just a little older. Please forgive me while I hold my sides as I laugh hysterically. Physically easier, yes, emotionally easier , no way!

Thankyou for allowing me to get all of that off my chest. Every so often it's okay to let yourself go a little "Linda Blair" on a subject. But through all of the tearing out the hair stage (mine not theirs, mostly) I'm learning a most amazing thing. I'm learning how God can love us in spite of us. I'm learning that as I try to grow (and mess up considerably) I become even more precious to Him. You see, I am watching my two oldest kids become adults before my very eyes, and they become more precious every day. Teenagers are quite remarkable creatures. They so desperately want their independence, and yet when no one is looking they curl up next to you and share some incredible insights or just silly laughs. Those are precious times that I will hold close to my heart long after they have been blessed with their own homes and families. I guess teenagers aren't as scary as I thought they would be. They are actually quite fun, and terribly witty when the mood strikes. And they do have some moods! You know, now that I think about it, I guess I wasn't called to be a Marine biologist or any of those other things. I was called to be a mom. And in Romans 11:29 it says that God's gift and His call are irrevocable. Sounds like I am in this for the long haul. I would call that blessed.

Excuse me while I go peek in bedrooms one more time before my eyes close in rest. Don't worry, I'll put the trusty noseguard on first (that's a clothespin for all of you novices). Did I mention their feet?

In His Grace and Mercy