Busy days and New Friends

I haven't had much time to write in the last few weeks. My new job of raising 7 special needs children is both challenging and rewarding. At the end of the day, I feel completely spent and completely satisfied. I am also taking much needed time for self-care. I have started to see doing what's best for me as a priority, not a luxury. Something as simple as spending an hour at the gym or making time for a quick nap is really helping my focus.

Two of my young charges called me Mommy last week. I can't describe the feeling really. It felt so natural and new at the same time. I loved it. They didn't plan it and I know they just made a mistake. Yet, that's a word reserved for a female caregiver who loves them and provides for their needs. Between a scuba outing, an unexpected nosebleed, two flues, 7 summer reading projects, and tutoring for advanced algebra (oh dear--that was a miracle I remembered it), last week was insane.

I did make time for some people becoming very important to me. Let's call them G and B. G and I can spend 6 hours and 45 minutes on the phone and still have more to say. He is spontaneous, generous with compliments, street savvy, gentle, flirty, a committed father, an adoring husband, and seems to know exactly what he is looking for to add to his family's joy. B has a good head on her shoulders, approached her hubby first about seeking another wife, has so many similar views as me on child birth and rearing, is a devoted mother, makes me laugh, practical, well-rounded, and able to dream. She is finder of all things Tinkerbell and considers laundry therapeutic (there are 2 of us?). He shares my love of camping and baking. She is wise enough to read between the lines and very open (enthusiastic?) to share her home and children with another loving lady. She's a Carolina girl at heart and understands the value of a cold Cheerwine, really good BBQ and real southern potato salad. I have spoken to all of their children and am forming a bond most closely with their youngest, T. We've been talking about 3-4 weeks now and they've invited me for a very lengthy visit. No pressure. No strings. No expectations. No seriously oppressive rules. They have offered a variety of social, privacy, and sleeping arrangements based on how I would feel most comfortable. They offered a plane ticket with an open return date and to make the drive themselves to the airport. They even asked my favorite candle scents and allergies to make me feel more at home. I feel welcomed, even months before making the actual journey.

G made his intentions and feelings toward me very clear. He seems the type who is decisive and says what he means. I am slower to make the kind of choices that will shape how my life will turn out. He says he is a very patient man and will wait for my heart to catch up. There are so many more things that I wish to say.

There are 2 people who I know secretly read my blog. I am officially letting you know that I will make this a private blog with adult themes in the near future. I need a space to say what I mean, with out the fear of being pounced on by those who may disagree with some of the choices I am about to make.

I am really in a good place right now. Life is beautiful and full of blessings.

They seem to be willing to take the time to let things happen naturally and comfortably, yet not to move so slowly that we all grow mold. I am considering a Christmas/New Year's visit. They are willing to move to NC, if things work out. I am willing to consider moving to them. He offered to teach me the dances of his culture in his living room by candlelight.

Third time is the charm?