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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

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August 12, 2012

Blue Skies, Birthdays and Brenna…Simply Sunday

Blogging is such a strange and wonderful world. You get to form bonds with people you’ve never met. And you know you may never meet them! You connect with each other, feel each other’s pain, joy, heartache, success. You hear their hearts in the words they write and you find yourself inspired to dig deeper in your own life…in your own faith.
This is exactly how we feel about our friend Lynn from Blue Skies.
And that is why we are so thrilled to be welcoming her as our very special guest today on a very special occasion in her life.
Now, please help us welcome Lynn to the Picket Fence!

Brenna’s Birthday
I’ve been invited by Heather and Vanessa to be their guest blogger today. I have to tell you, it comes on a very, very special weekend and I’m so happy to share it with all of you.
Eighteen years ago, my life changed forever.
I wasn’t in a car accident, there was no death in the family, no fire or disaster. All the same my life and the life of my family was altered in ways we would never imagine.
We welcomed a baby into our life, and began down a road we never thought we would walk.
Her name is Brenna.
Oh, the life-altering detour in our lives?
An extra chromosome.
It threw us for a loop, let me tell you. We had no idea. While I was pregnant, I had a strong feeling something was up (it was a difficult pregnancy) and I spent many a night telling God just exactly what I could and couldn’t handle. What road map to follow. If we should go North or South.
Down Syndrome was definitely not on the map of my life.
Fortunately, God doesn’t go by my map.
As this unchartered map was shown to us, we began to see a pattern. Our road was one that was full of people. In the beginning, it was a neighborhood when the girls were little with 17 kids on the cul-de-sac. A place where the girls could thrive, run free during summer nights and Brenna could lock whoever she pleased out of their house and find the Cheetos in their pantry.
 Later on down the road, when we were tired and wanting more for our child and others like her in the realm of school, a team of seven men joined together with my husband to ride bikes across the United States in order to raise money to begin a special education program in a private setting. Really?? Not something I would have EVER imagined sitting in my hospital bed that hot August morning.
As an artist, I have had the privilege of bringing art to my children and their friends, both at home and at school. There’s nothing quite like glue, paint and glitter with a special ed. class. I love it, but I know an aide that struggled every time she saw glitter of any color, and I have a feeling those were not her favorite days. What a blessing to laugh together through those art lessons.
This pattern includes our family, extended family, strangers whose lives have crossed ours and long time friendships. Which is the beauty of Brenna’s roadmap. No one is a stranger to her. There is no prejudice, no being blinded by the culture, (O.K., with the exception of Justin Bieber.) and she has a great sense of knowing people’s character.

I worried so, so much at first. I’m pretty good at it, so I worried about her sister, our life, what would be changed, what wouldn’t go as planned, the vast detours, the health problems, the things we would never do. It’s exhausting, all that worry. It weighs a person down. 

All though I haven’t mastered the art of not worrying, (what parent does??) I have learned that, a. it really doesn’t get you anywhere, b. my child has done far more than I ever dreamed of and, c. when one quits the worrying, the lessons flood in. When the lessons flood in, and they are received, grace enters. Thoughts are changed, hearts are opened, our hands are held open instead of in a closed fist. When our hands are held open in this life…well. 
There is love and commitment. Trust grows. There are things like learning to treasure moments, living in the present and laughter. Some days I close my eyes and take a deep breath, and just stop. My mind travels to the sweetness of her eyes. The sound of her laugh, the opportunities that have come in our life, and I think about things like struggles she has faced. Some she has overcome, some that might never be redeemed. True, there are days when I close my eyes and I am sad. Sad for what isn’t to be, sad for roads she will never take. But strangely enough, when I open my eyes, I look around and see that I’m the only sad one in the room. Brenna’s not sad. Heck no. She’s ready. Ready for the day, the next adventure, being at school, the next summer camp, her next slice of pizza. I’m learning to recognize my own sadness, feel it, express it and  to move on.
As parents, we work HARD. With any child, we strive to help them be successful, we strive to give them confidence, love, a firm foundation. It’s no exception with a child who has special needs. 
The road with them might wind in different directions, but the destination is the same.
Along the way, we are touched deeply. We are reminded to slow down. To love a little more, to let go of preconceived notions. We find out that some things just don’t matter. And the things that really, really do matter? 
Oh, wow.
Those are the spectacular parts of the road: The relationships, the struggles that bring us to our knees or to others for help, the hand that we learn to extend, the love we learn to receive and give; the knowledge and wisdom and compassion we learn and give to others. The beauty in the road here is mind boggling.
Our little family has found their way on this unexpected road,  and we have learned to love fiercely along the way.
A lesson I don’t think we would have learned nearly as well without Brenna’s map.
Many, MANY thanks to Heather and Vanessa for the opportunity to write and share this part of my life, and thank you for taking the time to read and walk a little bit of the journey with me.
Feel free to come by and see what direction we are going at my blog,
Blueskies.

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23 Comments Filed Under: Good Thoughts, Guest Posts, Simply Sundays

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Comments

  1. At The Picket Fence says

    August 12, 2012 at 1:58 PM

    Happy, happy Birthday Brenna! We love that we have gotten to know you through your sweet mom. We feel blessed that she shares “you” will all of us! You are an amazing young woman and we’re proud to have you over here at the picket fence today. May you have a birthday every bit as special as you are. Much love,

    Heather and Vanessa

    Reply
  2. Anonymous says

    August 12, 2012 at 2:04 PM

    Happy Birthday Brenna! I hope your day is filled with joy and lots of fun!!!!

    Reply
  3. Karin Chudy says

    August 12, 2012 at 2:05 PM

    oh my great GOODNESS!! With a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes, I wish Brenna the most WONDERFUL daughter in the world!!!!! I love when people can open up their hearts and take something that others would consider bad and turn it into what it is really meant to be….AMAZING!! I have a special needs nephew and I can’t imagine what all of our lives would be without him.. He makes us stronger and better people..Showing us what true love is.
    HUGS to you all.
    Love,
    Karin
    http://www.artisbeauty.net

    Reply
    • Karin Chudy says

      August 12, 2012 at 2:43 PM

      that was suppose to say wonderful BIRTHDAY..but oh well..LOL thats what happens when I type with tears in my eyes!

      Reply
  4. Dawn says

    August 12, 2012 at 2:30 PM

    Happy Birthday Brenna! Hope your day is as beautiful as you are!

    Reply
  5. Bonnie and Trish @ Uncommon says

    August 12, 2012 at 2:52 PM

    Oh….HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET BRENNA!!! What an incredible young lady you are with such a contagious smile!! 🙂 Hope your day is as super special as you are!! 🙂

    Reply
  6. It's All Connected says

    August 12, 2012 at 3:59 PM

    Happy birthday Brenna! I didn’t even know I needed the life lessons that two grandchildren with disabilities taught me. Now, I shudder at my ignorance and am so thankful for everything they do to make me a better person. Sometimes the medicine seems bitter but we need it all the same! Thanks for sharing. ~ Maureen

    Reply
  7. Julie says

    August 12, 2012 at 4:55 PM

    What a beautiful story Lynn…It will stay with me through out our birthday celebration for my Dad today who is 78! Brenna’s eyes are filled with love and her smile beams with happiness! Happy birthday Brenna!

    Reply
  8. Ruby Jean says

    August 12, 2012 at 5:52 PM

    Happy Birthday to your Sweet Brenna!!! Your story has a familiar tone to our own story. Our first son was born with some unknown infection and had to under go a spinal tap in only a few short hours of his newborn life. We were young and inexperienced parents believing that your Expectant baby will be normal and you will go on to live just like every other family. Only to find out that things aren’t going to be the same, you would find yourself thrust into a world of Special Needs and all the Paper work and Programs that go along with it. Our son was considered Autistic and had no language till about 5yrs of age and even then it was audible. I found myself telling the Lord that He promised in His word not to give us more than we can handle and I certainly wasn’t handling this okay. However as the years have gone on and He is now soon to be 16 we find that he has taken us on a journey and have learned more about the Lord and His faithfulness and Perfect will for our lives. We our so very Blessed to have our son Bryce in our lives and stand amazed at this young man who once had no comprehension of who God is let alone the fact that I couldn’t explain we were out of peanut butter for his sandwiches, now stands in FULL knowledge and understanding and has such a Love for the Lord it astounds us. He still struggles with Language and processing but all in all he has achieved more than I ever would have thought possible.
    Blessings to you on this VERY special day!
    Angelina

    Reply
  9. Anonymous says

    August 12, 2012 at 6:27 PM

    Happy Birthday to a beautiful girl. 18 ia a milestone. I know you are a blessing to your family and friends. To Lynn…you do have a blessing in your lovely child. You are a blessing to others. Your own grace and beauty shine thru. Thank you. Regena in Tn.

    Reply
  10. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    August 12, 2012 at 6:50 PM

    Happy, happy birthday Brenna!!!….What a beautiful person you are…you teach us how to love life itself and to enjoy every moment of the day with an outlook of sheer joy and excitement. Lynn, I so loved this story…it so touched my heart as my grand niece is a special needs child…her mom, my niece, is a Special Ed professor at a prominent university…so God gave her the blessing of this beautiful child….Thanks Heather and Vanessa for this ever so beautiful and heart warming post….truly inspirational.

    Reply
  11. Beth says

    August 12, 2012 at 7:18 PM

    Amazing story (and photos!!) Happy birthay Brenna!

    Reply
  12. Judy says

    August 12, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    What an awesome story. Very inspiring. Happy Birthday Brenna!

    Reply
  13. Anne Lorys - Fiona and Twig says

    August 12, 2012 at 9:02 PM

    This post blessed me so much, you have no idea.
    Mu husband and I have been discussing the possibility of adopting a down syndrome child, I can’t think of a greater blessing.

    XO,
    Anne

    Reply
  14. Dewdrop Gardens says

    August 12, 2012 at 9:37 PM

    Beautiful story, beautiful pictures, beautiful daughter! Happy Birthday Brenna!!
    Debbie 🙂

    Reply
  15. NanaDiana says

    August 12, 2012 at 11:27 PM

    What a wonderful, soul-stirring story. My mother’s best friend’s youngest boy was born with Down’s Syndrome. Back then the tried to force her to institutionalize him. She absolutely refused. We had a lot of fun with Bobby when we were kids and although he never learned to talk, or read, or write, he was gifted in Baseball. He could say the names and statistics of every single player, past or present. It was amazing. About the only other words he said was Momma and Lambie (his sister). God bless this family as they walk this path- xo Diana

    Reply
  16. Debby says

    August 12, 2012 at 11:58 PM

    I have a special needs adult son. His story is complicated. But I do understand the sadness of things they will never experience.
    Your sweet daughter is just adorable. SO happy. You are right she isn’t sad. I know she has brought your family alot of joy.

    Reply
  17. Teresa@oursoutherncountryhomeandfarm says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:32 AM

    Happy Birthday Brenna!

    Reply
  18. Courtney ~ French Country Cottage says

    August 13, 2012 at 12:37 AM

    Amazing amazing post and what a beautiful young lady! Happy Birthday Brenna!!

    Reply
  19. Karen says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:40 AM

    What an amazing post! Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter and your ‘map’ with us. Happy Birthday, Brenna!

    Reply
  20. Linda R says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:46 PM

    I have read this story before and it has me all teared up just like the first time I read it.. Happy Birthday Brenna!!

    Reply
  21. Colleen says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:02 PM

    Happies of birthdays to beautiful Brenna!

    Reply
  22. nude massage London says

    August 14, 2012 at 5:43 AM

    Almost in tears because these are so right-on and what needed to hear. you for taking the time to write this and for adding such pretty graphics. This post will be saved and re-read when needed.

    Reply

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“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, “Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Psalm 9:10
This is one of my most favorite projects from my b This is one of my most favorite projects from my book Life in Season! 

Because, if heaven has a fragrance, I’m fairly certain it smells like lilacs.

I think that somewhere along the way the verse in the Bible that said, ‘heaven will smell like lilacs’ just got lost in translation. But it HAD to have been in there at some point, right?

When I bury my head in the blossoms (which I absolutely MUST do every single time I walk past them), I immediately feel a stirring in my soul.

It seems like I wait forever for my lilac tree to bloom. Every year I anxiously watch as the buds begin to form on the branches and then when the blossoms finally burst forth I begin that agonizing process of deciding the absolute perfect moment to snip them and bring them inside.

And then, after all of that waiting and watching it’s just over…done. Because, unlike heaven, lilacs don’t last for an eternity. So, making my own lilac room spray seemed like the perfect way to enjoy their fragrance long after the blossoms have faded.

Here’s how to make it! Ingredients: Water, Vodka, Lilac fragrance oil. Directions: Fill spray bottle with 50/50 ratio of water to vodka. Add 12 drops of lilac oil. Give it a shake, spray and if the scent isn’t strong enough, simply add a few more drops of lilac oil.

Once you’ve made this lilac scented room spray you will be very tempted to spray it in every room in your house. And someone may want to use it in the bathroom to cover up other less…ummmm….pleasing aromas.

But, do not, I repeat do NOT, let them.

You’ve captured the fragrance of heaven in a bottle and you wouldn’t want to go and tarnish it now would you? 😉
We had two back to back days of sunshine (the most We had two back to back days of sunshine (the most we’ve had in a LONG time) and now we are back to pouring rain. This has officially confirmed what I’ve know to be true for awhile now.

I’m a MUCH better version of myself when the sun is shining! 🤪 So I’ll just be over here today plotting and planning how my husband and I can be snowbirds someday when the kids are out of the house.

If you could spend your winters (and apparently most of spring too!) in any part of the country, where would it be?
Happy weekend sweet friends!! We’ve had a LOT of Happy weekend sweet friends!! We’ve had a LOT of rain lately (which is saying something when you live in Oregon) and I’ll admit that it’s affecting my moods a bit. I feel like I’m dragging and struggling to find the energy to get stuff done. So don’t mind me if I’m over here looking at photos of my garden in the summertime and finding that it keeps me hopeful about those days to come. They will come, right?! 🤪. 

What are your favorite plants that you look forward to seeing in the summer?
We’re going to be giving our laundry room a make We’re going to be giving our laundry room a makeover soon. It’s LONG overdue! In fact, the folks from the counter company were just here taking measurements. While we have made some simple, inexpensive updates over the years, it still has many of the original elements from when the house was built in 1992.

Two of our bathrooms are also in need of major makeovers. And we’ve saved up enough money over the years to tackle those projects. But, for the most part, we made the decision to use the bulk of that money in another way. While we knew that it was financially wise to invest in our house, we also knew that the greatest investment we could make was in our children. 

I’ll admit, there are times where I see other people doing massive overhauls of their entire home in a matter of months and I feel a prick of envy. But, we decided that if our choice was between waiting a bit longer to enjoy a renovated bathroom or going on adventures as a family, we would choose adventures every time. And we don’t regret that decision for a single second. It’s not that we haven’t tackled home projects (we’ve done a lot!). It’s just that it’s been a slow and steady process. 

Most recently, we let our son pick where we would travel for spring break since this is his senior year of high school and we are trying to make up for lost time. With so much of life ‘paused’ for two years, we have appreciated these moments more than ever. And, since he’ll be heading to college in the fall, we are very aware of how important it is to spend this time together while we still have a modicum of control over everyone’s schedules.

We have many years left to remodel our home but only so much time left to make memories with our children.

And, while I’m always happy to look around my home and see rooms that are updated and more reflecting of our style, it doesn’t compare to the joy I feel when I look around my home and see the people I love the most who have been shaped by the many adventures we’ve experienced together.
Happy Saturday!! After endless days of rain (and h Happy Saturday!! After endless days of rain (and hail and snow) we are finally getting some sunshine and warmer temperatures. I’ll be honest, it’s really affected my spirits having one gloomy day after the next. So this is a much needed reprieve. Our cherry trees are showing off outside my kitchen window and we plan to get outside and make the most of these days while we have them.

What’s the weather like where you are?
“The devil, darkness, and death may swagger and “The devil, darkness, and death may swagger and boast, the pangs of life will sting for a while longer, but don’t worry; the forces of evil are breathing their last. Not to worry…HE’S RISEN!” (Charles R. Swindoll).

Happy Easter! He is risen indeed!
Who has believed our message? And to whom has the Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?

For he grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground; he has no stately form or majesty that we should look upon him, nor appearance that we should be attracted to him.

He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, he was despised, and we did not esteem him. Surely our griefs he himself bore, and our sorrows he carried; yet we ourselves esteemed him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 

But he was pierced through for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon him, and by his scourging we are healed.

All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on him. (Isaiah 53)
I try to always remember to put a water bottle in I try to always remember to put a water bottle in my car before I go to pick up my daughter from school. She didn't ask me to do this, but a few months ago I began to notice that she was often thirsty when she would get in the car. Her water bottle filled up at the beginning of the day was empty by the time school got out and she would ask if she could have some water from my hydroflask. So I make sure to have one waiting for her. It's just a simple thing, really. But, I want her to know that I'm paying attention, that I see her.

Isn't it amazing how small gestures can make us feel less invisible? Knowing that someone is thinking of us and takes the time to meet a need that we might not have even realized we had? These little acts can have big impacts. What is something that someone has done for you recently that made you feel valued and seen?

What have you done for someone else to remind them that you are paying attention to their needs?

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”
― Charles Dickens
“The next day the large crowd that had come to t “The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!’ – John 12:9-19
#palmsunday
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