A Rough Start . . .

Ruthie started out today reverting back to some of her "old" behaviors. After I nipped it in the bud, things are going smoothly. Hey, she's gotta test, right? She has to make sure that I mean what I say! My in-laws left this morning and it may have had something to do with that. I am not discouraged in the least, but encouraged because I know that we have seen progress, a breakthrough, and that there is hope! We ARE winning this little girl's trust and her heart.

I wanted to share some things that helped me while we went through the worst of it these past few weeks:

~I work out 4-5 times a week--and not a light pregnancy workout, but a workout with weights that makes me sore and leaves me feeling totally invigorated afterwards. Sometimes Ruthie joins me, but usually this is my time to let her do what she wants because I am not stopping! LOL

~I have Ruthie (and all the kids) take a rest time everyday for at least an hour if not more. I also rest during this time, usually by reading a book--and not a parenting/adoption/attachment book, but a good read. I love classics and right now am reading "The Woman in White" by Wilkie Collins. So far, so good.

~I recognize when I am not responding in love to Ruthie and instead of doing her chore, school, etc. for her, I have her rest to "get strong" enough to come back and do it. This gives us both a breather from one another. It is better for me to take a break than to not respond in love.

~My kids are in bed by 8(ish). Then it is Cameron's and my time. I do not do any housework and such after the kids go to bed, but let myself rest.

~I have minimized outside influences right now. Play dates, playgroups, and field trips are not a priority right now. I have enough on my plate without adding more stress. I am not involved in outside ministry because right now, Ruthie IS my ministry, as are all my other little ones. I want to spend these young and tender years investing in them. I also try to limit the time when my mind is occupied on the computer and phone--I find that usually while I am busy doing other things, Ruthie is finding ways to act out. I have to be constantly ready for anything and although this is draining, it is worth it.

~I get up every morning BEFORE my kids and have a quiet time. Sometimes it is only a few minutes before they trickle in, but being alone with God to eat my "daily bread" and pray renews me and arms me for battle each day. In addition, it really helps to be up before Ruthie so that she is not prepared for the day before me--that would give her control. I want to be prepared and in control at all times.

These few things have really helped me through the hard days. I also play praise music, keep a tight schedule, and we stay home a lot!

Well, it is a GORGEOUS day and I am off to spend some time with the kiddos outside! (poor Cameron is busy with "work stuff" today and isn't home) :(

In Christ, Laura