We also rejoice in our trials, because we know that trials produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4
This blog is my six-year-old son, Cole's, version of last evening’s happenings at the Hasenbalg household.
“Daddy was away in Nashville to work with Ketis Curtis Chapman, but you can just call him Ketis Mommy ‘cause it’s shorter.” (More on Cole’s name for Steven (a.k.a. Ketis) in a later blog)
“Maya got her foot stuck between the crib bars and she started crying and then screaming. Then Mommy got Maya’s foot out. I was in Mommy’s room when this happened. But when she pulled Maya’s foot out it hurt so much that she started screaming and she cried so much she started throwing up all over. Then mommy used so much toilet paper to clean up Maya’s throw up that the toilet got clogged. Mom said she couldn’t deal with it now and wanted to get Maya to sleep. So, she put Maya in the other crib and asked me to lay in the bed while she read books to me. But, then we heard a sound like a waterfall in the other room. Mom went and looked, and the toilet had kept running and flooded the whole bathroom and Maya’s room. Mom said she had to clean up the big mess. So, she ran to get lots of towels. I helped mommy by taking care of Maya while she was downstairs getting even more towels.
A digression from the actual story into Cole’s thought life during the ordeal: “Mommy took so much time that I was so scared because I thought the toilet was going to flood the whole house. I thought maybe I should get Maya out of her crib and then run downstairs and run out of the house and then go to the neighbor’s where I could be safe. And if that happened I would come back for you, mom, and swim through the house to save you and I would call 911 – right mom? 911 – Isn’t that the fire department or the electricity saver or something?”
Anyhow back to the rest of the real story….
“Then Mommy came back and got in bed with me and read me a story and finally Maya and I fell asleep.”
The moral to the story from Kerry (a.k.a. Mommy): And so, I choose to praise Him for the little crosses that test our patience, show us our need of Jesus, and if embraced develop character in us. Through this I am reminded to pray for single moms who on a regular basis have no one else to help them when “real life happens.” Finally, I am also super glad Cole knows the number to the electricity saver in case of an emergency.
Oh Kerry I'm sorry to chuckle at your expense, but I so needed this laugh today! Thanks for the distraction from our heartache.
Posted by: Patty Smith | July 10, 2008 at 05:49 PM
That's great.
Posted by: Beka | July 10, 2008 at 07:05 PM
What a funny story. I understand how everything can fall apart so quickly. My husband is in the military and is away often so many times I feel like a single mom. Everything seems to break down, clog, or overflow as soon as daddy leaves!!! You have an awesome attitude. I pray my attitude will be the same!
Posted by: Lori | July 10, 2008 at 07:44 PM
Haha, electricity saver. Too cute.
Can't wait to hear about "Ketis". ;)
Posted by: Emi | July 10, 2008 at 07:49 PM
Sounds to me like you have an awesome little helper in Cole!!
Posted by: Diane | July 10, 2008 at 10:01 PM
Kerry,
I am a single Mom who right now just yelled at her three kids to "shut up!!" so she could read your blog (along with the Chapman's which I do every day). Of course I felt horrible and realized I was losing my last bit of patience for the day. I am now in a self imposed time-out :)
I then went back to reading your blog. When I read your words about praying for single Moms, I promptly burst into tears. It was just what I needed to hear! I have been a single Mom for over 4 years and it is very hard.
My ex is due in court tomorrow for not paying $44,000 of past due child support. If he does not pay something he will be put in jail. Of course that means he will not be working and will not be paying any child support! Real life is sometimes too "real" for me!
Thank you so much for the prayers. I really needed one tonight! Amy
Posted by: Amy | July 10, 2008 at 10:15 PM
Kerry,
I love it! Your attitude is wonderful and your little Cole sounds adorable. My family will be heading to Euless, Texas from our home in Midland next week to worship with "Ketis." Since you know my family's story you know that we are looking forward to our time there and I am praying for more healing through the Chapman's testimony and music. They continue to be in my prayers. Thank you for sharing yourself through your blog
Posted by: Lee Ann | July 10, 2008 at 10:57 PM
Hi Kerry,
I have been reading your blog for a while, but have never commented. I think because your words leave me speechless, wanting a heart for God like yours, but at the same time fearful of the things I know develop that kind of intimacy with Him.
I LOVE that your sweet Cole calls SCC "Ketis". I have a 5-year-old son who also can't quite get all those names to come out right and calls him "Skeetish Churnin Catman". :)
Lee Ann, our family too will be traveling to Euless next week - from Lubbock. We look forward to worshipping alongside you and the Chapmans.
Posted by: valerie (in TX) | July 11, 2008 at 12:46 AM
Oh my, sounds like you had quite the adventure. There's never a dull moment when kids are around. We watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympics last night and my 3 and 5 year old daughters were so excited to see the American flag. Then this morning, we were picking up my husband after he returned a van rental and there were flags all around the area. My 3 year old yelled out "Look mama, it's the flag from the President of the Idol States". Too cute.
Posted by: jill p. | August 09, 2008 at 01:41 PM