Newfound strength. 
Words cannot describe the appreciation I have for some new people in Tatum’s life. This weekend, we had the chance to be with an incredible family who solidly love the Lord and truly embraced Tatum.
Not to my surprise, I relished some time with the mom of the family, Dee, as I picked her brain with Tatum strategies. Her wisdom gave me so much hope. Giving Tatum choices and allowing her to slowly gain some independence will wage off her potential battles with me ( of defiance and frustration). Also, Tatum, and really any child, needs constant communication about what to expect and how to act in certain new situations. If given proper guidance and clear expectations, she can only blossom in challenging times. I am learning, minute by minute, how to lead Tatum down the path of least resistance on all of our parts.
Thank you for providing, Father, as you lead us into the next stages of life. Thank you to the S family as they are treasured by Tatum and me. Thank you to my dear friends at church who patiently love on me as Tatum and I learn to make the best of our experiences within the church walls.