So often as parents, we talk about the funny moments and sweet memories of when our kids were little. But what we don’t always talk about enough are the gifts that come when they’re grown. This season of watching our children step into adulthood has brought its own kind of joy, beauty, and lessons—things I don’t want to miss noticing.
And as I write about mine, maybe it will encourage you to share what you love and appreciate with your own kids. Our kids need to hear this. Our words last longer than we realize.
COLE
- Cole is like Teflon. He lets things roll off better than most anyone I know. He has a resiliency to life that was forged through fire but it’s there.
- He frequently shares Jesus with others and often invites friends and his clients to church. I know because sometimes they show up!
- He will mess with you. Cole will tell you something so confidently that you believe it then he reels you in and you’re caught before you ever realize he was messing with you the whole time!
- Cole is an avid reader. So many 📚 every year.
MADISON
Adding my daughter-in-love also
- Madison is an amazing cook – gluten free, not gluten free, vegetarian, baking – she can cook it all!
- She’s quiet but busts out one-liners that are classic and funny!
- She is quick to help anyway she can – in the kitchen at holidays, sweeping after dinner, doesn’t matter what it is, she offers to help.
- Madison is patient. They dated for 5.5 years before marriage. Patient 😊
BAILEY
- Bailey has a beautiful voice. She doesn’t sing that much for others to hear but she does have a beautiful voice – reminds me of my mother.
- She is so smart. Quiet and introspective. Always processing but smart. Things intellectually come easier for her.
- She has a quiet fierce love. She’s protective of herself but she loves fiercely and quietly.
- Bailey has been the greatest test of love for me and also the reason I learned to cling tightly to Jesus. Learning how to love & keep loving when it’s not shown in return. To keep praying and waiting.
KYLIE
- Kylie… well she LOVES life! She is fun and always wanting adventures! The girl LOVES to travel ✈️. When I need more fun in my life which is frequently, I hang with Kylie!
- She is always “put together” and has encouraged all of us to step up our game!
- Kylie is so thoughtful and considerate of others, especially others’ feelings. She goes out of her way to show people she cares. She’s an excellent gift giver. She has a big beautiful heart.
- She speaks her mind and is not afraid of confrontation but does it gracefully and firmly.
CARTER
- Carter listens. You tell him once & he has it. You ask Carter to do something a certain way and he does it that way every time going forward.
- When walking down the street, he will position himself on the outside near the cars if he’s walking with a female. He is a gentleman.
- I continue to be amazed at his conversation skills. He can carry a conversation with anyone. It’s easy to talk with Carter. Carter takes an interest when he’s talking with you.
- Carter has always had a diverse friend group, and I appreciate that about him.
From the Porch 🍃…
As the years go by so quickly, I pause. I find myself looking back with gratitude for the ways God shaped each of our children so differently. Their personalities, gifts, and quirks remind me daily that His design is always intentional and always good. My heart is humbled as I realize the gift, privilege and honor of being their mom ❤️