January 7

We all arose early this morning and piled into the car to drive Abby to the airport for her return flight to Chicago. We all didn't have to go, but there was no question that we would. It's what we do.

Although the ride was quiet and quick, the Southwest terminal was a zoo, with lines going every which way and luggage-toting people spilling from cracks in the sidewalk. (Not really. But it sure seemed that way.)

There were hugs for all. Adam sought out clarification from an employee about which line Abby needed to join, was given the (wrong) information, accompanied her to the rear of said (wrong) line, and then we were off.

And then after successfully tagging and checking her bags and clearing security, my girl was off, too. Off on an airplane to begin her fourth semester of college.

I'll miss our shopping trips and random chit-chats, but I'm so proud of her and I'm so grateful that she goes to a school where she has friends who love on her like she's their biological sister. To know that she's well-cared for when we're not with her is a huge blessing.