The end of a chapter

Today Emma and Addie had their last day of school.  Addie will be in elementary school for two more years, but for Emma, today was her last day.  She moves onto Middle School next year.  She is excited, ready, has an attitude of enthusiasm, and healthy curiosity.  Her dad and I are all of those things too, just add in a bit of melancholy and tiny bit of apprehension.  

Emma is our firstborn.  She has a zest for life, a head first type of attitude.  I will never for get her first steps- they were away from me, and on her first day of kindergarten she walked right in after we hugged and she never looked back. She loves to try new things, even is she is a little afraid, she goes for it and never gives into fear or what ifs.  When she was 4 years old, she jumped into her grandparents pool with all her clothes on.  When she popped up-she looked at me and said, "I just couldn't wait!"  She is my trailblazer.  She has a heart for missions and evangelism.  Before she began kindergarten, she would ask little kids at the park if they knew Jesus-she would get the funniest looks back from kids.  In first grade, she began a Christian club at recess and this past year, she led several kids in devotions from Jesus Calling at lunch break.  She is a special kid and so special to us.

Just when we think we are doing well with our kids growing up, we hit another milestone like this one and we remember not matter how much we soak in the moments, they still all happen so fast. Too fast. 

We are excited for the middle school years.  We know her choices will have more impact, she will face greater pressures, she will deepen her opinions and understanding of the world around her, and we pray her feet will always stand on solid ground.  We beg God on her behalf-love her, keep her eyes fixed on You- her Redeemer, and make her different.  We are asking God to do the same for us.  We will need continued grace, wisdom, and courage for the humbling moments.  

We are proud of you Emma.
You keep us on the move.
We are so thankful to be your parents.