New Beginnings

I would have to say that one of God's greatest gifts is our ability to change.  Last year (2012) was a bit of a rough one for the Hines family.  We started out the year with our furnace dying -- of course it was on one of the coldest days of the entire month.  Allan's car was in the shop numerous times.  With those two things alone the beach vacation we had planned was out the window.  We had more medical issues than I want to think about.  And yet, through it all, we managed to have some wonderful experiences.  But with all the negatives you can understand why I wasn't sad to say good-bye to 2012.  All the rough patches have served a purpose though.  It is because of those experiences that I am working hard to make some changes so that our family can have a great 2013.

Now the problem with change is our ability (or lack of ability) to stick with it.  I think the key to sticking with is it is having someone to go through the change with you.  I am blessed with lots of people to count on and, when needed, to lean on.  So what kinds of changes are happening for the Hines's?  Well here are a few to get us started.

1. Exercise:  While this change seems nearly impossible at times (there just aren't enough hours in the day), I think it may be the most necessary one.  I attribute a lot of my physical and emotional problems (constantly tired, extreme lack of energy, trouble coping with anger/stress/frustration) to my lack of exercise.  Some may find it strange that I'm not exercising for weight control.  I have absolutely no problem with my weight, although there are physical attributes I would like to improve.  Anyway, Allan and I have started on a beginner exercise routine I found on Pinterest.  I feel a little pathetic starting out this way, but I think we will see more success starting out simple.  It's not so daunting to start doing some jumping jacks and crunches.

2. Learning about Asperger’s Syndrome:  Our little guy was diagnosed with mild Asperger’s Syndrome and ADHD in November of 2012.  We weren't surprised by this diagnosis -- we had pretty much come to that conclusion when he was 2 -- but it is still an adjustment.  He started on medication for the ADHD and God blessed us with success with that.  It amazes me how much one little pill can help my Nonny.  He is beyond excited, that since starting on the meds, he has had all good reports from his Kindergarten teacher.  We still have a lot to learn and are determined to help him have a full and productive life.

3. Patience:  In the last 10 years I have had more than my fair share of drama.  I realize that I am certainly not without fault in these situations.  It has, though, pulled me away from one virtue that is so important to me.  Patience.  One of my biggest challenges (and Allan's too) is staying patient.  Patience is one thing that becomes even more important with Nonny's diagnosis.  It all connects, I feel like the patience will come easier as I exercise and use that as an outlet for my frustration rather than losing my cool and yelling.  While all three of these changes will be challenging, I know that we can do them by helping each other.  Even more so, with the help of our amazing Lord we can accomplish these changes.

 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.  - Ephesians 4:2-6