The Joys of Boys: Tough Week

Well, I think some of the McClearys are starting to process our huge change. That has caused a few rougher moments, recently.

It started last Saturday (7/20) when my parents left after an 8 day visit. It was extremely hard to have them leave. I was completely surprised by my reaction to them heading back to Illinois. Right after they left, I went for a run. It was really good for my soul to run, but I had some trouble breathing at points because I was just so emotionally overwhelmed. I'd love to say the run worked all my emotions out of me. However, the next day was our first visit to a local church. The positive was that everyone was so nice and welcoming. I think that morning in church was the first time I had sat and just breathed since this whole ordeal started on May 8th. As a result, I finally began processing all that had happened. Plus, the church sang a lot of songs my childhood church sang, which in turn made me think of my parents. Tough morning.

I am much better today. I still got teary-eyed while writing this out, but most days I am better. I did have a rough week at work and I heard from some friends back in West Lafayette which had me missing our old home, but I do see myself improving.

Well, sort of improving--until one of my kids is upset. Max had a tough Thursday. He had been weepy all day, according to Kevin. When I got home I held him and asked what was wrong. He just snuggled in and held onto me. He said he thought he was just having a bad day. Then he was quiet and continued to cry and let me snuggle him. After about 5 minutes, he finally said something, but it was about a friend back in West Side. That made me pretty sure that his "bad day" was more about processing a transition that he just couldn't explain.

Jason also had a tough day on Wednesday. He didn't want me to go to work and had some tears. I think he wants to hang on to the things that are constant for him during this time of so much change.

Ok, so that was some of the not so good parts of the week. We did have a really bright spot, though! I registered the boys for school on Wednesday. I had all three boys with me and all four of us were blown away by how great we felt walking out. Every person was so welcoming and positive! The boys had a chance to meet staff members from their schools. It was so obvious that every person there truly loves their job of working with kids!

One other bright moment was the follow-up by the church we tried last Sunday. Again, so friendly and welcoming. We went back today.

Also, for the boys, they've started meeting other kids. There are siblings across the street that they play with almost daily. Plus, Luke has started football practice and seems to feel great about that! He came home sweaty, stinky and with a glowing smile! That made my heart soar!

Each day we see and feel improvement. I never thought this would be easy and I expected tough days. Even through these rough moments, I know we will be ok. This is just part of the process.

Here are some pictures of how our house is becoming more of a home.