The heady days of summer slid through my fingers like water through a sieve. Months faded to weeks and weeks to days. Now, the youngest in the nest readies herself for flight as I attempt to recapture time. Those precious occasions when I view life through the eyes of my girl.

Laughter, tears, and struggles tangled up with friends. School. Church. The excitement and possibilities of life away from home. And I rebuff the worry that raps at the door of my heart.

I rebuff the worry that raps at the door of my heart. #eighteensummers #makethemostofthetime Share on X

Thoughts on Making the Most of the Time

The words of Ephesians bubble up from somewhere inside my melancholy spirit.  Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV)

Light brown hair hides the curve of her face as she rearranges towels, a small wire wastebasket, and a new makeup bag in the oversized cardboard box. “I don’t know which photos or books I’ll take with me.”

Not wanting to detract from my daughter’s joy, I paste a smile on my face as memories of her childhood play like a slideshow in my mind. I peer into the past—considering childrearing. Did I value the fleeting moments? The bandaged knees, sticky fingers, and late nights spent nursing a feverish little one back to health. Were moments of impatience overshadowed by tenderness and time spent with one another? Has she witnessed the love of Christ in my life?

In a world grown dark, how do I let her go? Again, I ruminate on scripture. In what ways can I make the best use of the time as my precious one’s childhood fades into the shadows? A list forms as I type my thoughts.

• Pray always.
• Make space for interruptions.
• Allow for growing pains.
• Grieve the loss and celebrate the gain.
• Listen, but advise sparingly.
• Trust the Lord.

 

Encouragement For Young Mamas

Crushed graham crackers in car seats and toys strewn across the family room reminded me of my exhausted state. Today, I peel a strip of clear tape from the roll and kiss my daughter’s cheek. “Take your favorites. It’s always nice to have a bit of home with you when you’re away,” I say.

Flashing a smile, she responds, “I’ll bring Emily Dickenson. And maybe Grimm’s fairytales.”

Young mamas, eighteen summers fly away like a butterfly drifting on the breeze. Make the most of the time.

Book Recommendation 

If your child teeters on the edge of adulthood, I recommend Empty Nest, Full Life by Jill. Savage. She shares stories that encourage and inspire mothers (and fathers) to look to the past with thankfulness and toward the future with hope.

Favorite quote: I want my identity to be determined by You and only You. Today I’m grabbing Your hand that’s reaching out to me.

 

Peace and grace,

Tammy

 

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