Saturday, June 20, 2009

tennis, old hat, and some other stuff

I really like tennis.
I have never really played tennis before.
But now I really like tennis.

Jordan and I took all the kids to play tennis yesterday, and I learned a few things about them. Josh and Jameson are so used to new things. They are so used to being in new situations and trying new things. They don't give up. New things are old hat to them.

Justine was playing ball girl, which was really kind of nice.
Jack and Jaiden were whining.
"I'm hot."
"I can't do this."
"I want to go home."
"I'm no good."

It was then that I realized a major difference between the original Ellerbee kids and the extended Ellerbee kids. (I don't like to differentiate by bio/adopted, new/old, or the color of their skin. They're all my kids)

The original Ellerbee kids lives have been so easy. They haven't had to worry about where their next meal is going to come from. They haven't experienced the loss or the adversaries that Josh and Jameson have. Things have been handed to them their whole lives. And I'm not saying this is a bad thing. I would never want any of my kids to have to struggle or worry about their basic needs being met.

That being said, I was so proud of Josh and Jameson and the way they keep trying at things that are new to them. They have so much drive to accomplish new things. They learned how to swim in 2 lessons last year. They both have learned an entire language over the past year and a half. They have learned the ins and outs of our family. I love their competitive nature. I love their athleticism. I love that they don't give up when things are hard.
I love them.
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2 comments:

Rebecca said...

Our kids really do have a lot to teach us. Sometimes I find myself in awe of what they've been through and how far they've come. YOU are a great mom, and I really admire all that you do for and with your kids!

Melissa said...

Gina, thanks for the message you left on my blog. Sounds like those of us with abandoned kids may get some good news next week...or at least news.

Thanks for stopping by.

Melissa Mowry