Back to school...

September 5, 2017

        

            

My Dearest Little Ones,

I'm not sure how it happened but in the blink of an eye, summer is over, and it is the eve of a new school year. Third grade and Kindergarten. How in the world did time fast forward to now. Where did those years go? It's wild and crazy to think back over the last 8 years since I became a mom and reminisce about every stage along the way. Each year of your lives just keeps getting better. Zack and Hallie, you guys are such wonderful and amazing little humans with giant hearts. I am so proud to be your mom. And I'm so honored that God chose me to walk with you, hold you, and run along side you as you learn how to fly. 'Oh the places you'll go...'

Tonight as I put you to bed, I am filled with mixed emotions. I have tears in my eyes but I am also incredibly excited for yet another new chapter in your lives to unfold. But still, when you wake up in the morning, you will be different. When you wake up, you will be in third grade and kindergarten. You will somehow be older and more mature. You will stand tall with confidence (and a tiny bit of nerves) as you pull on that first-day-of-school-outfit that you've been begging to wear since we bought it last month. And then slip those school shoes on for the first time. It will become real when I drop you off and you walk on your way to a brand new adventure. You are beginning to fly in a world that so desperately needs your love, your kindness, and your compassion. But my Momma heart will miss you.

I will miss our carefree days. Our morning snuggles and sipping my coffee as you play with legos and poly pockets. I will miss lounging in our jammies, or jumping out of bed to go on a crazy adventure. I will miss our evenings on the boat and staying up way past your bedtimes just to spend time together. And I'll miss you. The mid day tickles and wrestling. The hugs and kisses in passing. The dance parties. I'll miss your company, your jokes, and the sound of laughter that fills my house. But I know you are ready. 

As much as I want to keep you here, I know the world needs you. 1 Corinthians 13:13 in the message says to, "trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly." You, my dear little ones, do just that every single day. This world needs to see Jesus through that sparkle you have in your eye. Your classmates will see the hope of Jesus in those glorious belly laughs or sly smirks. And a broken world will feel the extravagant love of Jesus in your thoughtfulness, your kindness, your encouragement, and your generosity. I am so very proud of the people you are becoming with each passing day. So when you wake up tomorrow and I see you standing a little taller, or shining a little brighter, my heart might just explode with joy. Because you are the light of the world. You are deeply loved by a Creator that has created you for such a time as this. So go live life to the fullest. 'Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly.' And know that you are extraordinary, incredible, precious children, and your mom is crazy about you. I cannot wait to watch you spread your wings and fly. Zack and Hal, you are loved beyond measure. 

Watch out third grade. Watch our Kindergarten. Zack and Hallie are coming at ya!

Love you always,
Your biggest fan,

Mom