With temps still over 90 degrees here in the beautiful Dallas, Texas area, it’s hard to believe that we are knocking on October’s door. But the calendar says it is so. We filled our September days with school, work, eye exams and dermatology appointments, church, and tending to loved ones with medical conditions. I got to attend open house at the high school for the first time. Walking my daughter’s schedule at this 3 story behemoth left this country girl breathless and overwhelmed. It sure dwarfs the two hallways that made up my 3A school. I guess that’s one way these kids put all that energy to good use. And once I finally found it, I helped decorate the girl’s locker room to commemorate the start of volleyball district play.
Allie’s team competed in a couple of tournaments which gave me a little PTSD from the club volleyball season. Our girls brought home gold from the second, but Allie brought home a concussion. This is our first foray as a family into head injuries of any kind. And even though it is slight, trainers and doctors take these things very seriously. She has to be symptom free for a week before she can be cleared to play, and so far she has experienced headache, nausea, dizziness and light and sound sensitivity. She is currently doing physical therapy specifically for concussions (which I still don’t completely understand what is – for the record). I had no idea this kind of PT existed, but apparently a combination of ocular exercises, balance work, cardio, and hand eye coordination drills can help the brain reorient more quickly.
On the 19th, a new Sparks was born. A little 5lb 13 oz sweet niece for Chuck and I named Dylan. Can’t wait to meet her in person. And I am adding new gray hairs every day because Allie has her first high school boyfriend. Jesus be near. She is also getting involved in Young Life – where Jesus IS near – and had fun at their annual Crud War. A massive outdoor food fight the likes of which her clothes and our car interior may never recover from.
Chuck and I went to the theater on a double date to see the Downton Abbey movie. After months and months of waiting, it did not disappoint. At home we watched the John Crist comedy special I Got Questions and Too Funny to Fail – a documentary about the rise and fall of The Dana Carvey Show. I always loved his characters. I read Giddy Up, Eunice: Because Women Need Each Other. I was ready for a light and funny snack and I love the podcast the author Sophie Hudson does with Melanie Shankle. I’ve also started reading, and discussing with a friend, Sharing Love Abundantly in Special Needs Families: The 5 Love Languages for Parents Raising Children with Disabilities by Gary Chapman and Jolene Philo.
I finished the month by turning another year older. I am now officially closer to 50 than to 40. A moment to cry about that, please. But I got to celebrate with a girls’ weekend and then with my twin sister and PawPaw surrounded by family. I can’t think of a better place to be, and I’m so grateful. I’d love to hear what you did this month. What you read or what you watched. Drop me a comment below. And don’t forget, I love you, I thank you, and I hope October treats you well.
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Stacey Pardoe says
I always enjoy reading your words of encouragement in this space, Lauren! How is it possible that we’re on the brink of October?! What I loved most about this recap was it nudged me to look back over the blessings of our month here and give thanks. What a great way to start a Friday morning!
Lauren says
Awww. Thanks, Stacey.
Jana says
I always enjoy reading update posts like this! It’s a bit like getting to be a fly on the wall in someone else’s life. A part of me feels kind of sneaky and a bit guilty- like I shouldn’t have access to this information because I’m a total stranger. Another part of me feels welcomed and maybe I’m not meant to be a total stranger at all. 🙂
Lauren says
I never used to do them, Jana, but realized how much I enjoyed them from others. Thanks for reading and writing!
Rebecca Jones says
It was 97 here in Atlanta, why I was inside. I was never good at volleyball or basketball, I guess I needed something safe like writing. Be blessed.
Lauren says
Oh, so over this heat!
Shelbee on the Edge says
You certainly had a lot going on in September. Head injuries are no joke. I am glad that your daughter is okay and that they are treating it as a serious matter. I remember Young Life way back when I was in high school. I love that it is still around for kids now. Happy birthday to you! My next birthday will bring me closer to 50 than 40 as well…coming this May…I will officially be in my “late” 40’s. Eeek! But with age comes a whole lot of wisdom that I wouldn’t trade for all my youthful days! Thanks so much for linking up with me!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Lauren says
You are so right about the wisdom that comes with age. Thanks for reminding me!
Rebecca Hastings says
Love your book recs! Can’t wait to check them out. And congrats on that new little one in the family!!!
Lauren says
Thank you Rebecca. I can’t wait to meet her in person.
Bethany McIlrath says
Happy October! What a busy time of life for you!
Lauren says
It seems like its always a busy time of life! Ha.
Mary Hill says
I know it is so hot this October. We had record heat here in SC. Happy birthday. I had a busy month too in September. Just finished the book: A Single Shard.
Lauren says
I will have to look that book up!
Dee | Grammy's Grid says
Precious niece!! You were busy, huh? Thanks so much for linking up at the #UnlimitedMonthlyLinkParty 5. Shared.
Lauren says
Yes she is. Thanks, Dee.
Heather Keet says
Double dates are so much fun, they add a dynamic that just seems to solidify marriage and commitment – while laughing together! #GlobalBlogging
Lauren says
I agree, Heather. The more the merrier!