This weekend things started to get real. We took a couple of college tours with Gavin to help solidify the decision. As we get closer, it’s hitting my heart more and more that he’s heading off to college in a few months.

When I watch him on the tours, I see that sweet baby boy in my arms for the first time. I see the little toddler laughing and playing with his sister. I see the little boy who was enamored with his little brother the first time he met him and held him in his arms. I see the boy playing whiffle ball in the yard for hours. I see the kid jumping off the dock at the lake with his cousins. I see the boy who’s always been up for a game of any kind. I see the boy who brings calm, thoughtfulness and humor to conversations. When I look at Gavin in this season, I see vividly who he was, yet in the same breath, I see who he has become.

He is a fun-loving, witty, loyal, dedicated, hardworking, compassionate young man who loves his friends and family deeply. I see him embracing the season he is in and how he looks forward to the next season to come. It’s beautiful to see yet sometimes I find myself wanted to hold on rather than let go.

I share this for the other parents out there navigating sending your teen off to college soon as well. Know you’re not alone. I invite you to join me to…

pause. breathe. pray.

As much as we want to hold on to the past and the present, may we look to the past with joy and to the present with gratitude. And may we look to the future with hope as we watch our teens take a step of faith towards their future self. May we prayerfully let go and trust them in God’s hands. He will be with them every step of the way, and let’s pray our kids remain with Him too.

The journey of letting go isn’t easy for us, or for our kids. May we remember that as we walk beside them through this. May we meet one another with love and patience and make the best of the time with them home the next few months.

Wishing you and your teen all the best in this changing season💕🙏💕

With love and hope,
Shawn