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I can replay it all in my memories, young me yelling at my mother: “You’re making me look like a Barbie!” My tomboy side had me running for the hills after laying eyes on that floral dress and curling iron. I needed someone to play ball with in the yard and shoot Nerf guns with.

So God gave me a son.

The wedding pictures tell a different story. Stargazer lilies mixed with fuchsia and white roses. My ears and neck frosted with black and white diamonds. A fitted white dress any Barbie would be proud of. I needed someone to enjoy fancy parties and dress up with.

So God gave me a daughter.

I needed the thrill of monster hunts and crazy living room acrobatics. I needed to twirl and curtsy in the most beautiful dresses. To remember the amusement of mud pies, but also the satisfaction of clean hands.

So God gave me both.

I needed the dance parties in the kitchen and wrestling matches on the floor. Those sweet butterfly kisses at bedtime and the unexpected swat on the butt. I needed dinosaurs biting and roaring at everything in sight. I needed Barbies dressed up and scattered on the floor.

So God gave me both.

I needed glitter and tutus. I needed trains and racecars. The joys of basement forts and princess castles. I needed Monday night Nerf gun wars followed by slow dancing to bed. I needed unicorn rides and bull bucking experiences.

So God gave me both.

I needed a daughter who would jump for joy when football comes on and hunt for worms in the garden. I needed a son who would have a tea party with all the fixings and comfort a crying baby. I needed a son to kiss boo-boos and a daughter who could hold her own.

So God gave me both.

I needed glitter and dirt mixed into my adventure. I needed the classy with the sassy. I needed the tenderness with adventuress. Moments to run wild and crazy. Moments to cuddle and sing. I needed bear hugs and tackles. I needed sweet I love you wishes and Eskimo kisses.

So God gave me both.

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Christy Margritz

Born and raised in central Nebraska, Christy lives in Kearney with her husband, two daughters, son, and three dogs. She is a kindergarten teacher with a passion for worship. Some of Christy’s favorite things include singing, dancing, watching movies, or reading a good book. Most days you can find her dancing and singing with her kids!

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