the journey continues...things I'm learning

At this place that we are at with our children, I'm learning to say yes more and save the no's for things that really matter.  I'm learning that we create happiness by choosing to be happy.  The days of the kids growing up are changing so quickly and I'm learning that as each day slips away, I am more and more content.  Nothing extraordinary has to happen for it to be a great day.  I am learning that it's the every day things that matter most...beautiful fall days, leaves changing, no one forgets something in the morning on their way out to school, sitting at the dinner table together talking about our day, reading at night, sitting on the front porch, going to a game together.  Who wouldn't wish for a day like this?  There will come a day in the not so distant future where we won't be rushing around after dinner to make it the the basketball game or a track meet.  I won't be asked for a ride here or there.  No more piles of laundry.  The piano won't be played.  Will I miss it?  Yes!  I love our life.  The schedules of games between the kids, packing up lunches and sancks etc.  All the craziness...but I also want to sit back and think of all that I'm thankful for.  When I first started writing in my journal, I used to write about 5 things each day that I was thankful for.  I want to remember to always be thankful.  God has blessed me with so much and for that I am truly thankful!  So pay attention to the things that are really worth caring about.  I know I can't make time stop or slow down, especially as my kids continue on this journey to adulthood, but I can celebrate their journeys with them.  I have to remind myself that the life we have right now, at this moment, is the best life there is.  Seasons of life come and go.  Instead of looking at the past, I want to celebrate where we are.  I know AJ doesn't think I want him to grow up, but I truly do! :)  I loved having him as my sweet little boy but more than that, I love watching him grow into the young man that God created him to be.  I love watching him as he steps out and does things that aren't in his comfort zone because he's growing up.  And as Rachel is beginning her freshman year, I already see her pulling away just a little bit each day.  It's going to happen...it's supposed to happen!  And I can't wait to see where they end up in life.  I'm excited for the new relationship between Randy and I.  It's an exciting time and I'm so thankful!