Passages

It's July and we are days away from the birthdays of my two youngest children, Nikki and David. This is the year that David will turn 18 and Nikki will be 15. Wow, where did my babies go? Unlike their older brother and sister, these two were born to more "mature" parents. Dave and I were 38 when we had David and 41 when Nikki came along. Having experienced how quickly babies turn into young adults, I was determined to enjoy every moment of their lives. I'm happy to say that there has never been a regret or a dull moment involving these kids.

David recently graduated from high school and this achievement has filled him with confidence about his future. He has had a life-long love of cars and he's developed a lot of knowledge and ability when it comes to fixing them. I know he's also looking forward to getting his driver's license (his appointment is July 21 at 10:15 a.m.) At this particular moment he's teetering on young adulthood and I'm in the early stages of opening my hand to let this little bird test his wings. My heart is beginning to ache but it's time to give him over to the Lord and let him fly. Soon a new relationship with my son will begin to form and I'll be reminded that if you do a good job as a mother, your children leave your side and prosper on their own. It's one of the thorns of motherhood. I must remember to tell that to my daughter, Candie.

Nikki started high school last year and will begin her sophmore year on August 30. She loves sports (volley ball and softball), the beach and hanging out with her friends. She's a pretty normal kid, despite the fact that she is my baby and has been treated accordingly. I've loved watching her grow from a curly-headed toddler into the straight-haired teenager she is today. She has struggled with normal issues and a couple that most kids don't ever have to face, but she's come out on top. She's a good student, great athlete, and a sweet, loving daughter, sister and aunt. She will be my last child to graduate and I'm going to treasure each moment of her remaing years in high school.

I remember reading somewhere that you always remember the "firsts" but seldom remember the "lasts". As I grow older I realize that it's true. Maybe I will make a greater effort to remember the "lasts" these two children have. God bless everyone and cherish each moment of your life and the lives of your loved ones.