Happy Friday!  This was a monumental week for our family, as our first born headed to the University of Louisville [go Cards!] to begin his freshman year.  I’ve decided to dedicate this week’s FFFs to the hellos and goodbyes of sending a loved one to college.

Here’s an op ed by Michael Gerson regarding his thoughts on dropping his son at college.  Especially poignant to me, because I too have an “on the quiet side” son.

My son is on the quiet side — observant, thoughtful, a practitioner of companionable silence. I’m learning how empty the quiet can be.

Saying goodbye to my child, the youngster

I had the chance to get to know a couple of sweet young ladies a little better this summer.  Here’s a younger sister’s perspective of saying goodbye to the older as she heads out for her freshman year.  Thanks, Olivia, writer of {I Shall Not Live In Vain}.

But we can rest assured, knowing that although sometimes, a bird must fly away from its nest for a time, it will still come back; yet this time with stronger wings.

‘See You Laters’ and Growing Stronger Wings

Taken from Beloit College’s website:  Each August since 1998, Beloit College has released the Beloit College Mindset List, providing a look at the cultural touchstones that shape the lives of students entering college this fall.

The Mindset List 2017

A quote for the college students in the crowd:

My song of the week is Great is Thy Faithfulness by Page CXVI.  I’m thankful for God’s faithfulness in getting our family through a lot of crazy mumbo-jumbo and enabling us to witness the accomplishments of our kids.

Gosh, it’s hard to comprehend it’s been 18 years.  But….it has and here we go.  Happy freshman year, Jamie!  And to my husband, one down/one to go!  ♥

Here’s to a safe and restful weekend.