"Okay, kiss your grandmother, and get out." My pronouncement this morning as it began to "really" snow. Not the most motherly approach to looking out for our oldest son and his girlfriend, but the looming 8 to 9 hour drive home to Milwaukee was the motivation. As soon as Mark and Allie were on the road, our youngest was promptly shoved out the door to begin his drive back to UCM campus.
Now, nearly an hour later, Keith is dozing on the sofa, our daughter, Coby, is catching up with friends and her squad through the wonders of social media, and Mom is checking in with my brother, Jake, about ranch details and the watching of the upcoming Chiefs game.
I am sitting in my office, fireplace going, music in the background, watching the huge snowflakes tumble to the ground. The wonder of God's nature always gives me moment of pure pause, How awesomely complicated and finely orchestrated nature can be! There is always beauty and wonder to be found, we just don't always take the time to pause and see it.
The snowflakes are so large today, and they are cascading down onto the surface that was enjoying 60 degree weather just a week ago. Each flake, as we learned as children, is unique. As I watch the snow fall, and enjoy a majestic view out my window, I am thinking of my kids, they are like snow flakes. Each very unique and beautiful.
I have often reflected on how fortunate and blessed Keith and I are to have such amazing children. Raising three kids is full of challenges, homework issues, social struggles, dating dilemmas, responsibility lessons and lectures, mommy meltdowns, yelling, crying, pouting, and above all laughter. Our kids are not, and never have been perfect. I thank God for that fact. I have always been proud of my kids, and continue to be in awe of who they are as adults.
Today, as the weekend winds down and the work week looms ahead, I am already missing the two sons who have departed, and dread tomorrow when mom and Coby leave. Yet, I wouldn't want it any other way.
Our youngest has final exams this week, and several plans for the following week, so he won't be home for the Christmas break as early as usual. His focused, matter-of-fact approach to the holidays prompted him to bring matching, gawd-awful sweatshirts for each of his siblings and Allie. We have pictures of all four of them in these ugly clothing items, that each of the four was proud to wear!
I was fortunate enough to share a few private minutes with Mark this morning, and it was so nice to see him relaxed and comfortable. We had the privilege of attending a wedding this weekend, where Mark served as best man. He was so very "together", taking his role very seriously. Yet, he was at ease, well spoken, and so adult! It was a joy to see.
Our oldest, who is now napping before the game, will be back on duty next week, involved with Shop with a Cop activities, finishing her shopping, and making sure everyone in our family is lined out for the Jacobsen Christmas gift exchange. Last evening I overheard her in a passionate discussion about the electoral college with a friend of ours, quoting stats, making her case, and yet listening to others who were throwing in opinions, comments, and questions...her eyes sparkling and her laughter rang throughout the house.
Each of our children is unique, yet strongly devoted to the other siblings. They argue, pick on each other, hold each other to task, and truly enjoy spending time together. There are loud card games, a few drinks, riotous laughter, and hugs! Allie joins in and survives the chaos of a family gathering. We even managed to get family pictures taken without too much turmoil and uncooperative pranking.
Now they are all on their new journey for December. Promises of Skype sessions and phone calls were made as I was pushing the boys out the door. The snow has now stopped, and has nearly melted away. The laughter, noisy teasing, and hugs have melted away. My journey has begun, anticipating the next time we can all be together. An like a new snowfall, it will be unique and wonderful.
