Leaving the Nest

This pair has spent their entire summer helping to prepare me for this journey. I have watched in wonder as they have given birth, fed, cared for and then successfully sent not one, but six batches of babies out into the world this season. How did I know that their last babies would be ready to fly and leave the nest within days of my son's same journey. I have spent the last week packing, talking, and hugging this young man who is about to take his first steps out on his own. As I watch today, the young birds have been testing their wings. They keep venturing to the edge and peering over. The parents have been patient all day, trying to coax them out. It is the same within our home. Bry has been spending the summer off with friends and venturing out more than ever in the past. He has been testing his own limits and connecting with those who are headed off on similiar journeys. I have spent the summer remembering the past and dreaming of the future. Where will this take us all? I have known moments of pure joy and those quiet times of mourning the last few months as I have prepared for this upcoming event. In two days, we pack the car and head off to the dorms. My son's new home. I have been priviledged to have had the chance to homeschool my two children and because of this, we have spent many years at home togethor. The house was filled with projects, books, homeschool gatherings and lots of children. When our two decided to start public High School, it was a new beginning for us all. Less time was spent togethor and the evenings were filled catching up on day events around the table which was often times filled with more than just our own teens. Then there was the big move and a new school! Making new friends and refilling our home with a new batch of faces. The children both grew and blossomed with this new change. It became even more important for us to renew those bonds between us during those first few months in our new home. We grew as a family and enjoyed the time we had even though our schedules became quite busy with the kids social life, band, Wayno's new job and my returning to work outside the home. Through it all the wings were being tested and the children were peering out to see just what life was really going to be like once their independence grew. The first one is ready to make the flight out. He has been preparing for this since birth and so, I guess have his father and I. The hardest part of parenting to this point, may be the letting go so they can take that first flight. As I have watched all summer, being there on the fence just in case they need help is good but staying a distance so as not to hinder their progress is the best we can do. I am grateful for the lessons and blessing these two feathered friends have given me over the past several months. I will remember their patience and coaxing ways as we settle in to this new adventure. As for my son, I wish for him the strength and courage to fly and soar into a beautiful new journey. May you bless us all with your future Bryant!