It’s been quite the summer around here. We have had (and currently have) company. We are painting our house and getting other major projects done. We’ve traveled here and there. Through it all, our oldest two boys have been gone more than they have been home. We did have them home for two weeks in June and treasured every minute of it. (We also handed them a paint brush.)
When we signed them up for their activities this summer, we knew what we were doing. We knew that they were making big commitments and that they would be away from home quite a bit. But we also knew that what they were signing up for was exactly what they should be doing with their time. They went on a mission trip, and now will be at church camp either as a counselor/staff or as a camper for the next four weeks.
Our boys are growing up. They are becoming leaders and growing in their relationship with the Father. We are so proud of them.
As I was thinking of them this morning and praying for God’s protection of them and guidance while they are at camp, I realized how much I miss my boys. It occurred to me what a blessing it is that my kids are so great that when they are away from me – I really miss them. It’s not a relief to have them gone. I don’t welcome the break. I really miss them.
At the same time, I’m joyful and grateful for all they are blessed to experience this summer. I’m pretty sure this is God’s way of helping to prepare me to let them go in a few years. Oh but never mind. Let’s not talk about that yet.
God, take care of my boys and continue to draw them closer to you as they develop a more personal relationship with your Son. What a privilege it is to raise kids to love the Lord!
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Lanna says
Just a random question… did you feel the same way when they were little? Like 7-10 years ago during the brunt of burnt-out mommydom? (can you tell which stage I’m in, with a destructive 3yo?)
Laura says
During that season, I definitely welcomed a break more than I feel that I need one now. I think short breaks are healthy and necessary. I had a dear friend take my kids for an hour or two every other week or so while I went to the store. It was so refreshing! I wasn’t away from them for days at a time though like I am now when they go to camp. I don’t think I could have stood it when they were little!
Jill Roper says
Oh Laura, now that we have our last one graduated I can tell you the time passes like a blink of an eye. You have a great attitude. Letting go is an 18 year process. Rich used to teach a teen class called Launching. It is work for both the boys and their parents.
My blog today is how grateful I am for a husband who is faithful in spite of his debilitating illness. Blessings my dear
Ingrid says
Such a nice post to read. Glad to know I’m not the only “weird” mom who actually enjoys being with her kiddos :) Thanks for this!
Espie says
Raising boys is lots of fun and an incredible amount of work. I will be dropping my boys off for the day today with a dear college friend and her two children. I warned her that they are a hand full. She insists that they are much better behaved than I know. It reminds me to look for their strength and not focus on their weaknesses.
Stephanie says
They can’t steal my true identity….
Last week while walking with my husband & dog around a local lake while our son was attending a youth event there, I dropped my car key. Someone picked it up, went to the parking lot and “beeped” around until they found our car and stole my purse. It had waayy too much stuff in it for someone else to have. I have in this last week struggled with fear at times of that person, now having my driver’s license, social security cards for me & all kids, Credit cards, cash, all keys to our home, church, both vehicles and husband’s office, will come to our home. Although the week has been so full of “brain mush” from everything that must be done, and still not finished, I AM SOOO THANKFUL TO GOD, AND GOD ALONE! It could have been much worse….For some unknown (earthly)reason, they didn’t take the car, they haven’t used the credit cards, they haven’t tried to use our bank account, they haven’t tried to get credit using our name yet, and they haven’t come to our home. If they do come for more, go for it, all I want is my family safe. If they do steal any of our identities, it’s only the ones on earth…Noone can snatch us out of God’s hand!
There is still much to do and I could give you all pretty simple steps to protect yourself, some you know already, but a few the police, Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Office told me that I couldn’t find online. But the main thing is to know where your true identity lies. If you don’t know, start by asking God to open your eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to understand & begin reading any gospel in the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke or John) or Romans. Keep reading until God touches your heart. God is worthy to be praised in the good and hard times!
As we leave Friday for our annual vacation with my husband’s family, we will leave our earthly home and possessions in God’s hands……
Faith says
My 9 year old daughter is gone this week to with her grandparents, and I miss her too, even though my other two youngest ones are still at home, so I am right there with you. Thank you for the encouragement to continue to pray for her while she’s gone and the reminder that God may be preparing me too for when she will be gone in a few short years too! God bless and have a great week. Praying for you all!
Judith at WholeHearted Home says
Thanks so much for hosting the linkup party this week. Yes, I think it is such a good idea to prepare food ahead of time when I am having company. For fruits and salads that is a little difficult though.