![\"WP_20151107_002\"](\"http:\/\/www.karen-gustafson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/WP_20151107_002.jpg\")
<\/a>The other spectators and I were quite a sight. \u00a0We stood there huddled under umbrellas swatting the determined \u00a0insects while trying to stay dry. \u00a0We were not successful with either endeavor. \u00a0We tried to encourage each other that at least we weren’t the ones running in the pouring rain and getting eaten. \u00a0After awhile, though, the rain, wind, and constant biting started to get annoying.<\/p>\nAll of it seemed worthwhile as my son crossed the finish line. \u00a0He was the first on his team and in the top five finishers. \u00a0It was great to see him so proud of his accomplishment.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, as we waited for the awards ceremony, the rain continued and the wind picked up. \u00a0By now, the lower half of my body was wet and cold, and the mosquitoes were still out for blood. \u00a0I tried to just enjoy the boys and their excitement for a well run race, but I was struggling.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0After standing in the pouring rain and fighting insects for over three hours, my spirits began to fall and my frustration began to rise. \u00a0That’s when I began throwing\u00a0the temper tantrum in my head.<\/p>\n
I started crying out to God to still the storm and kill the bugs.\u00a0\u00a0I was cold, tired, and\u00a0weary of being bitten and pelted with rain.\u00a0 I was quickly reaching my limit.\u00a0\u00a0I wanted relief!<\/p>\n
As I continued\u00a0my complaining rant to\u00a0God, I found myself moving from the frustrations of\u00a0weather and insects to the\u00a0weariness of life.<\/p>\n
It’s a tough season right now. Responsibilities seem to be pelting me from every direction, draining my energy.\u00a0 The four kids at home are feeling the weight of making decisions about their future\u00a0while trying to balance responsibilities, relationships, and down time. \u00a0It can create a lot of activity and emotion! \u00a0Mix that together with dad being gone and you get\u00a0a weary\u00a0mom.\u00a0\u00a0A mom in need of relief.<\/p>\n
Thankfully, that’s just what I got.\u00a0\u00a0After the\u00a0awarding of medals and a nice, hot shower, we headed to Houston for the weekend. \u00a0We saw a movie, had a great dinner, explored Space Center Houston, and played at a fountain. \u00a0Thoughts of college admissions, college papers and tests,\u00a0work, and responsibilities were\u00a0put aside.\u00a0 It was wonderful! \u00a0By the end, we were all laughing and running around playfully like little kids. \u00a0It so refreshed my weary bones.<\/p>\n
As I said goodbye to my husband and oldest daughter, I was sad, and yes I cried, but I felt so much better. \u00a0The rain had stopped.\u00a0 The mosquitoes were gone.\u00a0\u00a0I had found relief.<\/p>\n So even though today is the start of another full week, I know it will be okay. I\u00a0have renewed energy and a heart full of joy.<\/p>\n Besides, Thanksgiving break is only two weeks away…<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As I stood there, cold and tired, I could feel the frustration rising in my body. \u00a0I wanted to jump up and down and scream at the top of my lungs. \u00a0Since I was in public and didn’t want to … Continue reading <\/a><\/p>\n