Life moves really fast. Just a short time ago Ryan finished her freshman year in college and was home for the summer; well, at least for a couple of days before her side trip to Greece. While she was gone, Meghan finished her junior year in college and came home for the summer. Shortly after, Patrick finished his junior year in high school. Ryan came home from Greece and all five of us were finally together again. Together and ready for a stress-free, relaxing summer; anxious for time to regroup as a family.
And, then life happened. The kids had jobs, friends to visit, trips planned, a college search, concerts to attend, family to hang out with, and all with one car to share. In a desparate attempt to keep track of their different work schedules and social calendars, and coordinate that within our schedules, I learned to parent via text message and bbm. It worked. They worked it out. They made it to work and fun. And, in the midst of the chaos, there was plenty of laughter, some tears, and tons of love.
And, then, I woke up one day last week and realized it's over. Time to book flights to Miami. Time to plan a return to trip to Charleston. Time to schedule Patrick's senior pictures and buy his books for senior year. Time to make sure his uniforms are in good shape (Lord knows I don't want to buy any of that for one year).
Life is happening. Our summer craziness has evolved into a chaotic frenzy of back-to-school activity. The kids are stressed. I'm stressed. Life is happening.
And, deep down, I know the magic is in the journey. So, I will stop, take a deep breath, and force myself to focus on the laughter and the love. And, if that doesn't work, while the girls are gone, I have these to remind me how truly blessed I am!
