52 Lists in 52 Weeks #11

List #11: The small, medium, and amazing things that happened throughout your week:

That’s an easy list because it was Orlando time! I was able to stretch outside my comfort zone, fly by myself, meet tons of new people and survive to tell the tale! 


One of the amazing things about this weekend was my husband who keeps my youngest two without complaint and supports me in this unique experience of adoptive/foster moms bonding over stories of rages, poop and pee, alarms, sibling trauma bonds and residential treatment facilities. It is an odd, alienating world we traverse and the road is long, laborious and lonely. (Wow, that was great alliteration!) I am grateful that my husband encourages me and loves me unconditionally.


One of the medium things was conquering my fear of the Atlanta and Orlando airports. I’m not afraid of flying but I’ve never flown or changed planes by myself. I had plenty of time between flights and I certainly know how to ask questions, but it was a stretch for me and a confidence builder as well. I did it! Excellent life lesson for my kids about facing fears.


One of the small things was realizing that parents everywhere are harried and exhausted, not just those of us with wounded kids. I was in the airport waiting for my flight with a young man and his 2-year-old (my guess) daughter who screamed in the airport, on the ramp, into the plane and almost the entire one hour flight. I sat in my seat praying for this man who showed extreme patience with a daughter who had reached the end of her coping abilities. As we left the plane I walked up to this stranger and said, “I’m glad your daughter is doing better.” He replied, “I’m sure you are glad. You and all the rest of the plane!” “No, I didn’t mean that. I understand what it’s like to have a tough child. I was praying you both would be able to rest. I have five kids. I understand!” 


What was small, medium and amazing about your week? I’d love to know and celebrate with you.