Summer Memories

I have spent a lot of precious time with our grandkids this summer.  I have noticed bugs, butterflies and the sound of crickets like never before.  I've been hugged, kissed and smiled at more times than I could ever count.  I've touched baby-soft skin and held small hands of various sizes.  I've kissed scraped knees, pinched fingers and sun-warmed hair. 

Recently, as I washed the beach sand from one of their little heads, I recalled as I have countless times before, my own children when they were small.  For a moment I stepped back into a treasured time when the days of summer were a blur of beach towells, bicycles, and picnic lunches in the yard.  Back to the excited sound of children's voices and enterprises like club house building and lemonade stands.  As you can see that was quite a long time ago!

Out of Control

In this photo, Sharlet and Zion are patiently waiting for their turn to fish during a family picnic at Kody's farm a few weeks ago.  Sharlet seems to be saying, "It's out of our control, Zion, our older brothers are fishing first and we just have to accept it."  I have been learning a lot about acceptance this summer. 

As our time with Kayla and her family ticks away and the dreaded "good-byes" loom just around the corner, I am reminded how difficult acceptance can be.  We have had so much fun, made so many precious memories, and loved every minute that we were all together!  I will miss them all terribly, but it's out of my control, we have to say good-bye.  I know that God, who is in control, will continue to keep us all "heart- to-heart" close until our next reunion, just like He has always done before!