This past weekend was Family Weekend at my daughter’s university. Her father, brother and I happily attended this annual event and were eager to spend time together as a family to recapture some of the mojo we miss on a daily basis. Oh wow...it was glorious. The missing element to our family dynamics returned, that sweet, sometime snarky, always genuine, rapport was back and somehow turned up a notch because our girl has a unique relationship … [Read more...]
Moms College Journey
One year ago I began a new and scary journey as I faced the effect college life was about to have on me. Not because I was going to college, but because my first born...my baby girl...my Samara was leaving our home and venturing out on her own. For her, the past year has been filled with new friends, new experiences, new adventures, travel and a fuller appreciation for learning. She has had her ups and downs, but more than anything she has … [Read more...]
I Am Back In College
At least that's how it feels! At this very MOMent I am sitting in my daughter's dorm room, on her bed to be exact. I am experiencing a VERY surreal flash back in time to when I was sitting on my own dorm room bed. (Many, many years ago...yes, two many's!) Familiar sounds of voices down the hallway, the creek of a bathroom door opening exposing shower sound echoes and hair dryer whirring and the shuffling of flip flops. Neighboring female … [Read more...]
Thanksgiving Changes
As you may recall, my daughter started college a few months ago. That has led to changes and a new normal around here. She certainly left a big empty space in our home upon her departure, but God is graciously filling that void. Having the capacity to embrace change, even one so very close to one's heart is a choice - and I am choosing to accept, adapt and grow. I have been counting the days until Thanksgiving and then CHRISTmas so I can … [Read more...]
College Freshman Tips
The weeks have rolled by into months...and I have survived my oldest daughter going off to college. I have learned a few things along the way. There are many emotions that have hurled through my heart and head over the last few weeks. Excitement for my daughter at what lies ahead, sadness for me as I miss her deeply, concern for her brother who is so very close to her and alarm for my husband who at times has looked like a sad ten year old … [Read more...]
Holy Spit Matters
If you have read my last few posts you may have noticed a common thread. P-I-T-I-F-U-L. Never underestimate the feeling of loss when your first child goes off to college. And this from a mom who is by nature ridiculously energetic and joyful. Ask anyone who knows me ... or anyone who sees me walking down the grocery store aisles. Skip-a-dee-doo-da-day! Suffice it to say God worked the pitiful out of me. This morning as I was … [Read more...]
Imagine Your Child Disappearing
Mine did Two days ago To go to college I miss her so As memories flash my lips curl upward with a soft smile I feel tears welling in my eyes Memories are a sweet gift Taking the time each day to make them, a wise choice Amazing grace that she was given to me causes gratitude to flood over me Reminding me that her Father in heaven gave her to me for a season A season of loving, encouraging, … [Read more...]
Children Away Parents Play
Be prepared to become insanely jealous - both of my teens are gone this week and though I thought I was going to be so sad...I am not. Hubby and I are having lots n lots of fun and enjoying ourselves muchly! We have also been quite productive, doing little projects here and there! Our meals have been simple and pleasant. Our conversations have been thought provoking and playful. Our prayers and gratefulness more often expressed. The days seem … [Read more...]
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