Where has the summer gone? School starts in less than a week. Fall is in the air. I love the change of seasons, yet I am not ready for the kiddos to be in school. Selfishly I don't want to give up my time with them.

I had a date with Pie .... we went to the movies, then off for ice cream. We had so much fun, just us, talking, laughing. It doesn't happen often enough but I love to steal an afternoon here or there with each kiddo. It's during that time that they each have undivided attention, they talk, they share. I learn more of their hearts.

She's my free spirit, a hippy at heart ... loving, caring, quiet.

Then there's Bub. Middle school on the horizon .... I can't believe it. Lockers, schedules, gym clothes. He's excited so I'm excited for him. Yet so not ready for this time.

We love, teach, guide and then comes a time of letting go a bit, letting them use all the skills and tools instilled since birth. A new adventure for him ... a sadness for me, mixed with excitement for him. To be apart of it with him, not as I was before perhaps, but in a new role.

Bub loves to be outdoors. And boy oh boy, he's all boy. Sling shots. Bow and arrow. BB guns. Bare foot. Dirt. Motorcycle. Fort. And I love that. When I think of Bub and summer, those words come to mind.

The fort, with the exception of a few little things, is complete! Bub worked hard, as did his grandpa. And what an awesome project. And an awesome memory for Bub.

Anyway, with he completion of the fort, we have spent several nights in it! Yes, me as well. But so very fun!

Bub flying a plane while we were away .... I so enjoyed sitting in the back seat, a nice little surprise.

Growing up can be so exciting, so challenging, so unsure, no matter what age you are. Whether its starting 1st grade, moving into middle, or moving into your 40's .... growing up is a wild ride. There are moments of complete confidence and peace, and than others where I am clueless.

Oh, I know what I am and who I want to be .... yet the process of getting to that place is not always easy. I may not have it all figured out but I have learned that it's not me. It's all Him. And the more I live by faith, the more He gives ... the more peace I have.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

I know I can do nothing without him ....

The house is finally quiet after a long day. The warmth has given way to a chilly night. I'm reflecting on our summer. Long, full days. I am so thankful for all of it ... we did a lot, we did nothing. But the handful of moments of just us .... the moments I cherish most.