My Redhead Named “Rudy”

In the last two weeks I’ve been in the company of two beautiful handicapped redheads. One with multiple sclerosis and the other going through chemo treatments. Both in which were the same age as my redhead Rudy. I of course, find myself feeling the knot in my stomach making the connection to my own child, and also wonder what gives these mothers the strength to endure? We as parents all know what it is, LOVE and just the plain fact of being a mother. And especially being a Christian, it could only be a God giving strength to be able to endure seeing your child go through suffering.

Moments like seeing this young mother holding her toddler with a face-mask on and thinning hair, really make me think about the moments when I feel I’m going to really “loose it” with my redhead. I’m sure this mother would love to do anything to be able to chase after her little boy running away from her giggling with each speedy step and not behaving. Yes, even in frustrating moments like these, I need to be more thankful.

I feel these are snapshots in life that God gives us as a reminder of what it could be for you and me. We need to not only be thankful that we have healthy children of course, but there are these parents out there that need our help, our love, and most importantly our prayers. Since that day in the nursery with the young boy with MS, my perspective of raising both my children has change somewhat. To raise a child with multiple sclerosis takes strength & patience both in which would come from God. I need strength and wisdom from God to be a parent that not only my children later in life would hopefully say, “they are proud of me” but, most importantly for my Lord and Savior to say the same.

How can we love someone that has only been in our life for 3 quick years as if we have known and loved them from the beginning of time?

From the time Rudy was born he has been an attention stealer. Every parent with a redhead knows what I’m talking about. For some reason people are drawn to mention and point out that “awww your baby is a redhead!” I love it! For people to dote on my baby and notice how beautiful his hair is makes me smile ear to ear!

I was determined to not let the stereotype of redheads be true for my Rudy! But, then he turned one. Eek! He’s kinda grumpy, oh boy he has a temper that could boil water, he’s stubborn, and so intense. Then I had to surrender to the fact the stereotype is true. He’s a hot head.

I’ve learned/learning to be a parent to this type of child. I think we have to bring to the table all different skills as a parent that is unique to every child’s different personality. I’ve only known how to raise “gentle Max” and then I was thrown into a typhoon named Rudy. And I’m so glad I am. God knew exactly what was needed for our family, me as a mother, and the perfect little brother for Max.

The most important thing I’ve ever done as Rudy’s mom was just except and embrace this child God handmade just for Kent and I. Don’t fight it, just embrace it. Time flies by so fast, and every since I’ve done this, I’ve enjoyed the roller coaster ride at this amusement park that is full of cookies, Reese’s cups, M & M, cake and Tootsie Rolls. Who wouldn’t have fun in Rudy’s world!

Here are 5 interesting facts about redheads:

1. Redheads Shun the Dentist
*According to research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, people with red hair tend to have more dental-office phobias.

I didn’t know this until I started to do my research! I took Rudy to his 1st dentist appt. last week and he refused to “open up” he was trying to be brave, but as you can see the tears in his eyes he was terrified. No success that day. Later that day I asked him why he didn’t let the dentist check his teeth and his response was, “got paste and toothbrush, go home.” Ok, simply put.

2. Although less than 4 percent of the world’s population is naturally red-haired, the most popular color of at-home hair dye is red.

3. In the late 16th century, the fat of a redheaded man was an essential ingredient for poison. (That’s just weird)

4. Hot tempered & stubborn
*Enough said….

5. Red hair doesn’t gray as much as other hair colors. Red hair initially tends to turn blond and then white.

Rudy is only 3 years old and I could write a full chapter book about “The Adventures of Rudy Raccoon” we call him Raccoon cuz he scurries away whenever he gets caught in action doing a No! No!

Like for instance Rudy just knocked down our tree, then tried to hide.

As many of you know I’m a fitness instructor. So that means Rudy had free range in the gym during the last yoga class I was teaching to 15 students. I was doing the pose “downward dog” and my little darling Rudy came up behind me and pulled down my yoga pants all the way down to my knees! Complete full moon! Do you know how hard it was to stay calm and unaffected by his action?! I’ve never been so RED in my life!

There is no denying that Rudy is a handful. And Rudy is not your cuddle type and he will barely ever hold your hand, but when he does, you cherish it all that much more, just like when he gives you a random kiss. It makes me melt. He has enriched our family with endless laughter.

If you were to ask Kent and I, if we would change it? We both would sternly shake our heads no! We never knew what we were missing until we had Rudy. I thank God, He did. I can almost envision God laughing when He was making Rudy and mumbling, “oh boy…” Our life and everyone else’s would never be the same without him! We are blessed to have the privilege to raise Rudy. Just buckle in and enjoy the ride!

Lastly, for the two little handicap boys that have crossed my path; you’re in Gods hands, under His great direction. And even though, this would be heart wrenching as a parent, the one comfort we can cling to is His promises. God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us. Easier said then done as I’m typing and listening to Rudy sing, I know. But I can pray for you to have that peace and comfort. And besides, your sons are redheads, and I know they are stubborn and determined, two great attributes to have to overcome any obstacles. May God bless you both.

Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. ~ Charles (Chuck) Swindoll

“The family should be a closely knit group. The home should be a self-contained shelter of security; a kind of school where life’s basic lessons are taught; and a kind of church where God is honored; a place where wholesome recreation and simple pleasures are enjoyed.”~ Billy Graham

I love you Rudy
~Mom