Summer Wrap Up...

Wow! It's been awhile since I've gotten to sit down and just reflect on all that's going on. It sure has been a crazy summer, one that I would never have been able to imagine a year ago.

Devin's assimilation into the family is pretty much done. It seems like he's always been here. He continues to give me constant fits of laughter...what a goof. We've spent our summer at the beach, the Disney water parks, a little traveling, lots of baking and pretty much just hanging out together. Devin went to "cop camp" last week which I think solidified his resolve to become some sort of law enforcement officer. He bought a pair of police handcuffs and all of us have been cuffed to something since!

I've been asking God for an area of service to become involved in...an area that I could work at with passion because it was close to my heart. God has graciously let me become involved in Family Services of Metro Orlando. I have such a heart for foster children who are looking for forever families, especially the older children who know that they have very little chance of being adopted. Over the past few months I've been able to become involved in the journeys of a few families and offer guidance and especially encouragement to them as they wade through this broken system. It has been such a blessing to me to be able to give some of the support I wish I'd had while we were going through the process. I'm so excited that God has opened these doors for me. I'm anxious to see what the future holds.

I also have a new adventure for the school year as I'm going to begin a job as a substitute teacher at a Christian school. This opportunity came to me quite unexpectedly and I'm very nervous and excited about this new venture. I've really only taught adults before and wonder what classes of high school kids can do to me....pray for me!

Our girls both start college at the end of August. Erica will be studying grahic art at Valencia and Erin will be working on her biology degree at UCF. It still amazes me that I am the mother of TWO college students....where does the time go? Doesn't seem possible.

School starts back up in 8 days. I'm looking forward to days filled with routine, but have loved this lazy summer with my family. I'm ready and poised to take on the new challenges that God brings to us...and I'm excited!

Just a few pictures of what we've been up to...