Again...for the seventh time!

It happened again!  This is the seventh straight time! I don't know how much more my mom's heart can stand...but I am so grateful!

For the seventh year in a row, we watched one, (actually one year, it was both), of our children leave home to begin a new year of college!  Seven years!  That means lots of adjustments, lots of preparation, lots of prayers...and yes, lots of "I am so proud of you but I'm going to cry anyway because I'll miss you terribly" tears.  Did I mention it is the seventh year in a row?

Seven seasons of "now what all do you need before you go back?"  Seven "now keep in touch, be safe, study hard, call if you need us...and text us to let us know you're ok" speeches. Someone once said it's more challenging when our children grow up because there are more concerns, etc., etc., etc.. Now I understand...deeply.

As Rachel and Micah's Mom...I am thrilled for their countless opportunities to learn, grow, prepare and mature.  Sure, I wonder if they are eating right, getting enough sleep, locking doors, arriving "home" safely, staying healthy, etc..  Yet I have accepted that although my heart is with them always, I am unable to be with them each moment to protect them.  Or am I?

Directly...I am not.  However, I am fully aware that our God is with them, watching them, protecting them, providing for them and guiding them.  My constant prayers to Him certainly remind me that I trust Him with our precious children.  He created them.  He loves them.  He has tremendous purpose for them.  While I hold them in my heart, He holds them in His hands. 

Thank You, God, for taking care of Micah during his Senior year in college.  Thank You for another opportunity he has to learn so he may serve You even more.  Please surround each student and young person as they learn, love and live for You.<3~thl

Jeremiah 29: 11>13