Closing Ceremonies or Opening Ceremonies

The Olympics have been such a fun part of our lives the past couple weeks. We have all enjoyed watching it, and it's hard to believe that it's over. As if extinguishing the Olympic flame wasn't enough "ends" for one week, we've come to the last few days of summer- school starts for the girls on Tuesday. We packed a weekend full of activity in this weekend, and I'm thankful for that. We made so many wonderful memories going to the Magic House, Grant's Farm and swimming. The rest of the family is going to the zoo on Monday, and although I won't be able to make it - I know that it's a wonderful way to end the summer, and I know I'll get details of the zoo as if I had been there.



It's tough to take that breath and move back into the school year mode. This year will be different - Katherine will be at school all day and Elizabeth - two mornings a week. I know that this is just the beginning of moments of "growing up", and unfortunately, I'm finding these moments challenging to push through. I continue to be amazed at how the Lord has blessed me with the love that we all share at home. I am so thankful that I am 6 years into being a parent, and almost 8 years into being a husband and that I treasure these roles more than any other role.

In the same respect, I am somewhat excited as we continue to move into the chapter of our lives that involves kids that are growing. I've definitely felt that Julie and I have become more and more comfortable taking on different roles in our lives - taking on more responsibilities. Julie is going to be leading a group of the women's Bible study at church. I am excited for her as she takes on that job, and know that it's only because the kids are growing that she can manage it. The Lord is using our changing lives in wonderful ways.

Still, the misty sadness of watching kids grow is hard. I love the kids more every day, but know that each thing we are doing with them, and each day we are with them is pointing them towards growing up and growing more independent. Again, as I've said before, I know that's what I'm called to do, but it's hard to do and hard to let go.