(When this blog was written there was a slide show here with pictures of my daughter and I through the years. However the website I created it on was canceled. Hopefully I will be able to make another one in the near future.)
When I tell people that Im going on the WORLD RACE the first question I get is …. "What about your daughter?"
Well we have had 18 great years together and I believe this one year apart will only make us closer (if that is even possible.)
Lacey has a lot of friends, church family, and family looking after her while Im gone. She will take the next year to work, save, and plan. No school or big moves till I get back. A year without her mommy will be a challenge and sacrafice, but she is excited and supportive of me. I owe so much to her. I may have given her life but she has saved mine in numerous ways. I was born to be a mom. However, I never could have realized the challenges, lessons, and blessings that would come as a young single pregnant 17yr old.
First she gave me purpose! As a teenager I was feeling quite bored and frustrated with life with no sense of direction. Boys and fun are what dominated my attention. Once I realized I was pregnant it was like I couldn't wait for each new day. I grew up over night. It wasn't long before I became a mature, independent and successful adult. Everything I did was fueled by my love for her and desire to be the best mom I could be.
The biggest lesson was a small example of what it might be like to be GOD … As a parent you want what is best for your chld. You set rules and guidelines and then watch as they are not often followed. You have to watch your children grow and learn from mistakes. You wish they would just do what you tell them. Then life would be easier for them. You want what is best. You'd do anything for them. You love them more than you even realized you were capable of loving. YES, I would die for her!! It warms my heart to know that this is GODs relationship with me. However my true understanding and appreciation of this has grown with Lacey.
She is my biggest blessing. When I felt down, unhappy, or depressed it was her that gave me the strength to go on. It was her who sparked my passion for life when she was born and has continued to give me excited hope for the things ahead. When my life fell apart in 2009 so did my will to live. However her coming into my room hugging me and talking to me I realized who my blessing and soulmate was. I could not leave her or let her down. She got me going to church again with her amazing strengh and love for Jesus.
I can't imagine my life, who Id be, or where Id be without her! I pray GOD loves me this way too. Today my little girl is all grown-up. It is her 18th birthday.(TEARS)
When the World Race came into my life a few months ago, she was the first opinion/permission I needed. This would effect her the most. I asked her what she thought and she said " Mom, that is awesome, you NEED TO GO, I would be so proud of you!!" Who knew when she turned 18 she would have to LET ME GO?!?!
I LOVE YOU LACEY BUG … HAVE A VERY BLESSED 18th BIRTHDAY!!!
