Blogging without obligation . . .

12 May Blogging without obligation . . .

It’s been four months since my last blog post. I’ve never gone this long before, but then I’ve never had a good reason to cease blogging. So far, the year 2009 has been one of the hardest of my life. It may be cliche, but I can’t help adding that although it’s been hard, it has been good. It has forced me to be honest with myself about things I was denying. It has forced me to face my fears and do things I didn’t know I’d be strong enough to do. And now I’ve come to the place where I have to decide whether or not I’m strong enough to blog again. I want to . . . but I want to blog honestly. Heretofore, I have strayed little from news about our little family. Pictures and videos of Todd, Camilla, and me, as well as updates on Camilla’s development and accomplishments. For a variety of reasons, I have avoided controversial topics, the things that were really on my mind. That’s going to change now. I can no longer keep silent. I am tired of hiding what I think. So, within reason, and with respect for others who feel differently, I am going to share what’s on my mind, be it politics (yuck!), my disgust with the current children’s vaccination schedule, my dissatisfaction with the lack of birthing options in Northeastern Pennsylvania, my ever-increasing love for my Savior, or the disturbing growth of what’s known as patriocentricity.

Most of the stripping and stretching I’ve been going through this year has to do with family situations. In order to respect the privacy of my extended family, I’ll keep it simple. My eighteen-year-old sister, Anne, moved in with us three months ago. We’re glad to have her, and wish everyone else were content with the situation. Unfortunately, my parents are not. Since I’ve decided to keep my blog public, and thus can’t control who reads this, I’d ask those of you who think you know the whole story to suspend your judgment until you really know the WHOLE story.

I’m compelled to add a Camilla tidbit here. I just called her “So big!” She answered, “No. You’re big. I wittle!” Precious–and true because Mommy’s belly is growing these days. If you ask Camilla why, she’ll tell you she has a baby brother or sister in there. He or she should join us shortly after Camilla’s third birthday. Yes people, January seems to be our month to get preggers. And although 2009 has been rough, this is one of the ways in which it’s been good. The gift of life is truly amazing. I couldn’t be more grateful for God’s blessing, for His peace in trying times, for His grace and for His incredible love.