One week from today, Jeff and I will pick up our oldest sonfrom his first year at college.

Turns out, you were right.

He has had a great year and life for the rest of the familywent on—mostly without feeling all that different.

When I wrote about Devin’s upcoming graduation a year ago and shared my unease with the pending transition, many of you reached out toencourage me. You told me that even though sending a child to college is hard,it is also rewarding. You told me that the relationships between parents andadult children are different, but wonderful. You told me that God would protectmy heart and his. Yep, you nailed it. I learned there is true wisdom that comesfrom experience. and I thank you all for sharing your wisdom with me.

Not only did Devin excel academically, but he did a greatjob being his own CEO. He took care of himself, his business, his relationshipswith professors and roommates, his laundry (even when he brought it home, hedid it himself!), his travel arrangements, his faith, his life. He embraced hisindependence and he handled it with maturity.

And yes, it was fun to watch! While a year ago, I wasclinging to memories of little Devin, now I can see how Devin’s entire journeyworked together to prepare him for his independence, and I am grateful. I amgrateful for the family members, friends, teachers, and coaches who played apart in shaping and preparing Devin for life on his own.

Now, don’t get me wrong, he is still a work in progress—aren’t we all. But, he took a big step this year and now I am nolonger uneasy about the next step. I am excited for him and proud of him—justlike I was with all the other milestones that led up to graduation last year. Iguess you could say that I matured over this past year myself! An old dog canlearn a new trick.

Next trick: getting used to having him home again. I think I am ready for that challenge.

Special thanks to Kelley Elmore of Habitat for Humanity ofGreater Greensboro who shared the message below with me about a month afterDevin went to college. I referred to it many times throughout the year. Thankyou, Kelley! Know that God is holdingDevin close every moment of the day - guiding his steps, giving him the wisdomand strength he needs… Just as He is holding you close every moment of the day.

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