Pep Talk

I think most people understand what a pep talk is. I remember several coaches in my life giving me pep talks before big games. Our pep talks these days are a little different. Life is crazy with a 2 year old. Adult conversations generally happen in the truck on the way somewhere or at night. Last night was a great night for Cullie and I.  We sat on the couch and talked about Levins. We discussed how each of us were doing and how we were handling it. We have a great support system around us. I encourage anyone who may be going through this to include their families and close friends. It is great knowing that we are not alone.

We now live in Cullie's hometown, which is great. We have the majority of her immediate family within 10 minutes of us. We hang out with everyone a lot. My parents and I talk daily (I admit multiple times a day). Our sisters and brothers are always in contact with us. Family is a huge part of our lives and is the glue that holds us together. We laugh a lot at each others expense. We always have someone to talk too. It is not something that we discuss all the time, but if it is brought up everyone is there to listen. The nice part about family is everyone is going through this together.

I have always been someone who likes to have a good time. I think a lot of people miss out on the opportunities just because they are parents. Summer has become my favorite time of year. I admit I drink beer and bourbon. It is not something that I drink to the point of being incoherent but I do think having a couple drinks at night is fine. We are very blessed to be living in the house and neighborhood we are currently residing in. All the Dads and sometimes Mamas will come outside after the children are asleep. We generally sit in one another's driveway and laugh. This has helped me out a lot. I do not think any of them understand how much I enjoy hanging out with them. The stress of keeping up with several things through out the day can be tough. Sitting out there making fun of one another's truck choice or why the others grass is dead is a lot of fun.

I guess my main reason for writing this post is to let everyone know support is around. I do not sit around and talk about the potential of Levins having DS. If I needed to vent everyone would listen. It is nice to have a support system of family and friends around. This time in our lives is very stressful. I look at the mailbox everyday and see a new medical bill. I pray and ask God for guidance. Finances can make or break a person. Finances can change daily. Fight with the insurance companies. Do not let it ruin your day or years. I live for the phone calls with my parents, the making fun of my brother in laws or riding the golf cart around the neighborhood. I think every person has an inner child in them, find that. Smile, laugh, cry if you need too. My favorite saying is "It takes a village to raise a child." Keep that in mind. You are never alone. Find what can help you relax.