bittersweet

I took the kids to the Lafayette library today to get them new cards. While doing my best to keep my younger kids from rambunctiously running between the kids who were trying to study, I met a new friend.

Amazingly enough we had much in common. Within three minutes of chatting quietly in the middle of a library walkway, we concluded that we:

• Both moved to the area less than two months ago,
• Both have an 11yo son in four classes together at school,
• We're both Asian, :)
• Both have an iPhone. I noticed because I entered my cell number in her phone, 
• ...and both of our husbands didn't make the move with us. Hers is still in Korea.

Cool prism at the library.

Up to this point since our move, I was feeling sorry for myself in this bittersweet chapter of my life since my husband is still in the OC. I thought for sure I was the only one in this impossible situation. For sure I had the right to think it's unfair that I don't have help on a daily basis for all the tasks of a household with four young kids. And yes, I now I have a new appreciation for single moms.  

I'm now the one responsible for the daily activities of four kids. From making lunches, preparing food, cleaning, driving, and homework. It's a big list and I don't want to bore you with the job description of a mom whose husband is not able to make the move yet.

Sooo here's my new favorite word...bittersweet. To me it means that even if you're struggling, there's a good reason to be thankful for your situation. To me it means that even if you're unhappy and frustrated that there are too many unknowns in your life, there's a lesson learned somewhere. 

Over the years I've been both a leader and follower, both outgoing and introverted, and both dependent and independent. So this season of life, I'll need to take a personal inventory of my strengths and make lemonade out of lemons. No, it doesn't mean being strong enough to squeeze the lemons! It means...

"Where there is no struggle, there is no strength." ~Oprah Winfrey