Senior Recital and Graduation Reception

Saturday was my oldest son's Senior recital and graduation reception. Leading up to this day was very emotional for me. I am extremely happy for him and proud of his hard work, but I also am a little sad. I am happy for that next phase of his life to begin. I am happy to see the man that God has made him, but at the same time I am a little sad for selfish reasons. I have been a little sad that he will be going away this fall. Not far, but still not at home anymore. I love that feeling at night knowing that all of my brood is safe at home. However, I do realize that God is watching over him and leading him on this next journey. I also know that God is with me on this next phase of motherhood. Motherhood is such a learning and growing experience. I am very thankful to God for making me a wife and mother. I have never felt such fulfillment as I do in taking care of my family and in making a place of comfort and security for them in our home. There is always so much to learn and to experience. So, I am now leaning extra hard on God for wisdom on my part in this transition in my son's life from boyhood to manhood. I know many of you have already traveled this road. I would so much appreciate your prayers of support right now. Thank you so much!
I wanted to share a few pictures of the recital and reception. My mother ordered this cake for him. I thought it turned out really nice!

It was so nice to talk to relatives that I haven't seen in quite a while.

The day went very well. My son appreciated all the well wishes and support of those who were able to make it and those who couldn't be there, but sent words of encouragement. Sometimes there are things in life that try to crowd out the really important. Events like this bring us back to family and friends and the fellowship that is so very important in our lives.

"Unless the Lord builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward, like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth, happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate." Psalm 127

"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would have not a single bit of talent left and could say, "I used everything You gave me." Erma Bombeck

Enjoy your Tuesday!

Kim

Wow! What a week this has been! Monday morning we awoke to a tree down in the backyard. We had experienced very high winds Sunday night. Several people had trees down, a few schools were closed due to power outages, and some roads were closed because of fallen trees blocking the road. Also, my mom was admitted to the hospital early Monday morning due to a mild stroke. She is now home and doing much better. The whole week just had a "different" twist to it. However, on Friday, my oldest son, who does dual-enrollment classes, received an academic honor. Clint is a high school senior. He takes a couple of classes at a local college for high school and college credit. The college had awards day today and Clint won the Calculus II award from the Mathematics Department. We were so proud of him for his hard work and perseverance.
Below, the president of the college gives an opening ceremony speech.

This is Clint receiving his award.

After the ceremony, we celebrated at Olive Garden.

The week is ending on a much calmer note than it began. The weather today was absolutely beautiful! Throughout everything that this week brought into our lives, we learned more fully to place our trust in God and to know that He is in control.

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!

Kim