My heart sings

My heart is full today and it's a wonderful feeling.  I have so much love and pride for my family that sometimes I am reduced to tears of joy.  Crazy, huh?  As a new parent (many, many years ago) I was besotted with my children.  Jim was too.  We used to sit and watch them just breathe.  It was amazing to think that we created these beautiful human beings.  Watching them grow through years only intensified the feelings.  My, our, love for them never waned.  Yes, there are times when we didn't like them or the choices they made but our love for them is steadfast.

This morning Sarah gave me a huge hug and said "you are the best Mom ever and I love you so much."  And she hugged me, a big bear hug where she was the last to let go.  Wonder how full my heart can get without bursting with joy?  I am going to really miss her day to day presence when she goes to college this fall!

Today starts off Mom's Weekend at WSU and I finally get to take part.  I am so EXCITED!  I have lived in Pullman since 1990 and this annual event has seen Mom's come to town year after year and spend time with their college age children.  Now, it's my turn. Technically, I could have participated last year when Jake was a freshman but we were out of town on a trip planned long before I knew the dates.   Not sure of our exact plans today, but tomorrow we are going to breakfast and the craft fair in the morning and then dinner and Jay Leno in the evening!  His girlfriend Lauren, and her Mom, will be joining us in the evening.  Jay Leno is quite funny and has been to Pullman several times for this event.  We saw him back in the 90's and laughed the entire time.  Even though Jay will be enjoyable, the BEST part of the weekend will be spending time with my son.  I am so lucky to have him for a son as he calls periodically to just talk, he likes to hang out with us at home and be together as a family.  He's a great kid and I'm proud of him.

I don't have the quality time with Kristin as I'd like.  Mainly due to the fact that she is at college on the other side of the state and doesn't use email or skype with any regularity.  I miss her.

At the time I didn't realize it would be our last family vacation, just the 5 of us, for who knows how long.  But I hold the memories of our trip to Cabo last Christmas near and dear.  Usually we are all together at Hayden Lake, but this year Kristin will not be joining us.  She'll be back east with her government internship.  It will be the first time in 20 years she will NOT be at the lake for our annual summer vacation.

When they grow up, things change and I know this is just the beginning of their lives as adults and more changes lie ahead.  I am proud of all of them and I know they will do well as they make their mark in this world.

But for now, today, I smile and have a happy heart due in no small part to my wonderful children.  And I can't wait to spend the weekend with Jake!

My heart sings.