June 12

I went to Costco with Abby and Isaac this morning.

I think I mentioned it previously, but Abby decided to get herself a membership a few weeks ago, and when she did, she added Isaac as a user. So I went went to the warehouse with them and watched as they went to the counter and they activated his membership.

It's surreal given that I can so clearly remember them as babies and toddlers who were completely reliant on us for everything they needed, but it's a blessing to see them adulting together now. And I am grateful that God is continuing to shape them into confident, competent young people. 

June 11

The pitching target that I ordered for Brady arrived this afternoon. 

Even though it was over 100 degrees today, he put it together and took it outside, and set it up inside the big blue net the boys have had for a number of years now. Although his shoulder was a bit sore from throwing 70 pitches during yesterday's game, he made a few practice throws and proclaimed that he thought it would work out just fine.

It's a gift to me to be able to see his solid work ethic in action. I don't know where the baseball journey will take him in the long run, but I appreciate his dedication to it in the right-now.

June 10

I had such a nice evening with my Isaac.

We started off by taking Brady up to his game in San Ramon. While we waited for said-game to begin, we did the kids' story walk around the (blessedly mostly shady) park. One of us read each of the panels aloud as we learned how the main character learned to better take care of himself and his fellow eggs. Totally a kids' story, of course, but fun nonetheless (particularly since it was 95 degrees out and blazing hot in the sun).

Then we sat down to watch the first three innings of Brady's game, which was a good one for his team. For his part, Brady pitched four innings and allowed two runs, and Isaac thought he looked really good. (As did I.) He also saw a whopping six pitches total across four at-bats, which yielded two hits. (A simpler way of saying that would be "he was 2 for 4 at the plate.") 

We had to leave early because I'd scheduled some Graduation/18th birthday (a little late for the former, a little early for the latter) photos at the Alviso Adobe Park on the other side of town with the amazing Racelle Campanelli. So we headed back to Pleasanton, had the shoot, and then he said he wanted Jack in the Box chicken strips for dinner, so we swung by the drive-thru on the way home after. 

Isaac is a truly special person, and I'm conscious that his phase as a full-time resident of our home is almost over. So I'm grateful to God for the extra time I got to have with him today, just soaking in all of his Isaacy-goodness.

June 9

I think I've probably mentioned it before but we're playing car roulette this summer. Since Abby's future car is on order and won't arrive for (at least) a few more weeks, we have four drivers and three cars to meet our transportation needs: Adam and Isaac both need to get to their respective work places, Abby needs to get to school, and I need to run errands and ferry Brady wherever he needs to go. 

Today Isaac had Adam's car, so I picked said-husband up from the train station this evening. And then we hop-skip-jumped downtown for dinner at Strizzi's.

I could immediately tell when he got in the car that he was mentally chewing on something, so I asked him about it during our meal and had the opportunity to serve as a sounding board. (I was right, for the record. I guess almost 24 years of marriage will do that!) 

We are called by God to be partners with our spouses, so I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a help to mine this evening. (And the salad was pretty good, too!)

June 8

It's a bit of a rarity to have all 15 members of a summer baseball team show up for a single game. Or at least that's been our experience.

So when --during my pre-game stroll around the park-- I noticed that all 15 boys were actually present this evening, I asked Coach Chris if I could take a picture. So here they are! Brady is the third boy from the left in the back row.

As I routinely note, it feels like time is flying by at warp speed, so I am grateful for opportunities that allow me to create tangible memories that I --and we-- can look back on.

June 7

I love watching hard work transform into success. 

Brady played again this morning, and although the team didn't fare well, he continued with the adjustments he made at the plate during the previous game and went 2 for 3 with a solid double to dead center. (And he had the distinction of being the batter who broke up a no-hitter relatively late in the game.) He was content with his performance during the drive home after, and thanked me for letting him see the videos of his at-bats from last fall when he hit very, very well, because seeing them helped him to figure out how he needed to adjust his approach.

Hard work doesn't always lead to the results we want, and I'd argue that sometimes a good result isn't the end-game God has in mind for us. Sometimes He wants us to learn patience or humility or perseverance, and the best way to learn those things is to struggle; to push against the things that challenge us until we finally break through.

But when the hours spent on researching and tweaking and perfecting and changing it up produce results, well, those are sweet moments. So I am grateful that I've been on-hand to see some of the fruit of my kiddo's work.

June 6

Adam and I went to Costco this morning. I don't usually like going on weekends because everyone and their grandparents are there, but he wanted to go so I tagged along.

My slight aversion to this specific trip aside, there's generally something really soothing about going to Costco. As we strolled the aisles looking for this and that, I could so clearly remember doing the same with all of our kiddos --even Logan-- all of those years ago. And the memory brought me a sense of peace and contentedness. Not with how things are right now --because our family is permanently incomplete on this side of Heaven-- but because of how Jesus's sacrifice promises they will be, eventually.

Anyway, after we checked out, we swung through the food court and picked up hot dogs and pizza slices (and a salad for Abby) for lunch. And then we ate when we got home. And it was good watching these dear children of ours sit together at the kitchen table eating that food that's always --in a strange way, I suppose-- been so dear to us because of its nostalgic value.

So for all of that --for the memories and the promise of what's to come and the joy of watching Abby and Isaac and Brady continue to grow-- I am thankful.

June 5

I enjoyed a pleasant day with this girl (who doesn't have class on Fridays).

In the morning hours, we went to the Mother Ship, Safeway, and Target. 

Then this evening, we enjoyed a stroll around Central Park in San Ramon before we settled in to watch Brady's baseball game. (They lost again, but Brady had a solid pitching outing and busted out of his hitting slump, going two for two with a well-struck double. So I'm definitely thankful to see his effort finally pay off!)

Anyway, I'm increasingly conscious of how short-lived the "zero to 18 parenting" stage truly is, so I'm grateful for time spent with my babes.

June 4

Ah, my heart: my babes were together again today.

It was a night class day for Abby, so when Isaac got home from his guys' trip to Napa, the three amigos were all home again.

And at some point, after Brady decided he wanted to take a dip in the pool, Abby mused (once again, because she's shared the observation many times since she got home from Chicago) that BearBear needed a bath. 

So they took him outside, filled a bucket with a hefty cup of detergent and water, and got the job done just as they did a year or so ago. 

They were all suitably amused by the process of watching everyone's favorite stuffed predator as he was submerged into the water and then squeezed over and over and over again.

I guess it seems like a strange activity, but it was a blessing to see them laughing and doing something (oddly productive) together. I know these days are growing fewer by the moment, so I am grateful for this opportunity for them to spend some time together and bond.

June 3

I think I've mentioned before that Brady has struggled with batting of late. He had a game today, so this afternoon, he spent a few hours trying to diagnose his issues and working on his swing.

When go-time rolled around, he still didn't get a hit, but he made contact each time and I noticed that he was running better. So that was something.

And then after he went upstairs and did a few hours of driver's ed (because he could get his permit in less than two weeks if he finishes, as crazy as that is), he came back down and asked to watch the video of his at-bats today that I took on my phone.

I know he's frustrated, but I'm grateful that he's still trying because I know he enjoys the game. And I know how important it can be to keep focus and determination when the going gets tough.

June 2

This loving sibling scene unfolded in my kitchen just after noon.

Abby, fresh from her morning jog around the neighborhood, went in for a hug from pajama-clad Brady, who had recently emerged from his bedroom to explore the food options in the pantry. Brady deflected his sister's overt play for affection with a palm to the forehead, and Abby responded with a foot to the stomach.

It was antagonistic sibling cinema at its finest.

But seriously, they didn't actually harm one another, and the exchange made me laugh. And laughter is a blessing.

June 1

A single, simple sentence came to mind multiple times today: 

And then there was one.

For more than 20 years, my hours have been filled to brimming with the sounds of childhood: giggling and laughing and shouting and crying and yelling and exclaiming.

But today, with Adam at work and Abby off to the first meeting of her credentialing program and Isaac on a trip to Napa with his pals, it was just Brady and me. 

And then there was one.

To his credit, he handled the his first real day of summer vacation --and being the only kid in the house-- quite well. He played a video game and then got in the pool, where I joined him on a giant floatie and watched as he dove into the water over and over and over again. And then we took a trip to the AMPM for an Icee (for him), and then went to the grocery store for milk. And then as the sun moved closer to the horizon, he went out back and practiced his pitch grips by hurling a rubber ball against the side of the house. 

It's probably going to take some time to get used to the relative quiet, but I'm grateful that my children are growing and changing and taking advantage of opportunities to stretch their wings. And I'm grateful that for the time being, one is still a kid, because I'm not ready to be an empty nester just yet.

May 31

Brady had a game this morning against a team that includes two of his friends from his high school team.

Jack and Ben are both good guys, from all that I know about them (and from their moms, who are both fabulous ladies). And Brady likes both of them, too.

Brady's team came out on top of the match-up, which is great. But I'm more grateful that my kiddo had the opportunity to play against some familiar faces. (And that they were all willing to pose for a pic for me after.) Because at the end of the day, I think playing a sport should be fun, and friends make everything more enjoyable.

May 30

We began our summer vacation with a crack-of-dawn (okay, 9am, but it may as well have been the crack of dawn) baseball game.

Although Brady's sole contributions were a walk and a run scored, the Royals cruised to their first win of the Big Season by topping the A's 7-0. 

I didn't take many photos and as strange as it sounds, this is probably the best of the three or four I snapped. The blurred little figure in the background is, of course, Brady. He's not the fastest runner but his coach is very big on stealing bases, so he took off shortly after reaching first base.

Anyway, I don't have any big observations to share, other than to say that I am grateful to have another solid school year in the books, and I am grateful for more opportunities to watch Brady play ball. As I'm finding out over time, the early years of life may feel long and drawn out at times, but they are most definitely shorter than I ever would have imagined.

May 29

Isaac graduated from high school today.

Adam's mom is still recovering from a health challenge she experienced a few weeks back, but his dad came down to join us for the festivities. We started with some of our customary photos in the backyard, and then headed out for an early (4:30) dinner at CPK (where The Works pizza proved to be a crowd-pleaser among the non-Brady menfolk). 

Isaac's ceremony report time was 5:45, so we drove over to Amador as soon as we finished with dinner and got him there just in time. He went inside to prep for the big event while the rest of us got in line to enter the stadium. A little later, we settled into our seats on the bleachers overlooking the football field. It was a surprisingly chilly day for late-May in the Bay (with a high of 65 degrees), so it wasn't exactly warm, but we made it through the two-hour ceremony in good spirits, partly aided by the impressive job done by one of the teachers tasked with reading graduate names. Mr. Robbins (who was Isaac's English teacher this year) has this booming, theatrical voice and he really gets into his duties, which absolutely added entertainment value to what could otherwise be dry proceedings.

Isaac was in one of the later groups to walk the stage, and my heart leapt into my throat when the name of the teacher he chose to hand him his diploma was called. (They graduate in groups according to their chosen teacher, not via ABC order.) I watched him edge closer to the podium; his friend Alex --with whom he played baseball for years-- was just in front of him and by happenstance we were sitting right next to his family, so we all screamed when Alex walked. And then a moment later, when Isaac's name was called, we all screamed again. And then I watched as he crossed the stage, paused briefly for a photo with his diploma holder and then strode back to his seat on the field. 

Afterward, once we found him, there were more photos and some sibling joviality (after he secured a cap and tassel. He threw his and then couldn't find it, but Tyler gave him his extra tassel. And he got a hat... somehow. Oh, and no, Brady is not taller than Isaac. This is an optical illusion). And then we all headed back home. Although some of his friends opted to go to the Grad Night party sponsored by the school, Isaac took a pass because he thought he'd be tired and wanted to get some good sleep. And in keeping with that stated desire, shortly after Adam's dad headed back to Lafayette and Adam, Abby, and Brady retired to bed, he changed into his pajamas and came back downstairs to sit with me for a few minutes in the quiet of the family room. (He does that sometimes; just comes and sits.) I asked him if there was anything he wanted to talk about and he said no; he just came to sit. So I let him. And after a few minutes, he got up, came over to give me and hug, and thanked me for being his mama. And I hugged him back and since he doesn't like it when I say I'm proud of him, I told him that I'm pleased with how he's choosing to let God lead his life. Because I am.

Isaac is a remarkable young man. He's intelligent and he thinks deeply about difficult questions. Even when he was very young and struggled to communicate his thoughts and feelings at times, there was always a soulfulness in his eyes that told me that he was far more complex than he seemed. Although he's had his troubles over the past few years, he continued seeking God and asking Him the hard questions. And although I know he doesn't have all of the answers he'd like to have, I know the Lord has blessed him with wisdom beyond his not-quite-18 years. 

So tonight, I remember the sweet boy he once was; my darling little chunky truck who loved giving Brady his pa-e-chowuh and massacred bowls of peas like no one else. And I celebrate the young man he is, because he is well-worthy of celebration.

Congratulations on your graduation, Isaac. I love you so very much.

May 28

Tomorrow, Isaac graduates from high school. 

But rather than immersing myself in memories of him as a baby and ruminating over how I can hardly believe that my chunky little truck is on the verge of adulthood (which I am entirely sure I will do for the next few days), I spent the evening with some of my fellow moms, most of whom have sons who play baseball with Brady.

And it was really, really fun. We drank wine and ate appetizers and talked about life and laughed. 

Although it's true that I find myself craving solitude more often than company during this phase of my life, I like these ladies and I like their sons. And I'm grateful to have had some time to get to know them a little better today. 

May 27

With just two days until graduation, Isaac donned his cap and gown and returned to his elementary school this afternoon for a photo op with some of his old classmates.

(It's almost impossible to tell, but he's the second from the left on the top part of the play structure, kind of in the shadows.)

Anyway, it was weird for me to be back there. On one hand, that school served as a home base for us for quite a long time, from Abby's kindergarten through Brady's third grade years. But it's also the school where I served as PTA President, and the emotional fallout from that not-so-great experience still lingers a bit today.

But fortunately, Isaac seemed to soak up the experience as he should have: with wide-eyed nostalgia. He played Skill (a more aggressive form of foursquare) and tetherball in his cap and gown and walked around the campus trying to remember where his classrooms were located and which of the outdoor lunch tables had been his go-to meal spot. It was sweet seeing his eyes light up as he took it all in and remembered those early days.

So for the blessing of being able to look back and fondly remember old times, I am grateful.

May 26

Brady's freshman baseball season came to a true close tonight with the baseball banquet.

Although one of the parents did an excellent job of  putting together our team slideshow and I enjoyed watching it, the real gift of the evening was when we were leaving and one of the parents handed Brady these.

They're a full set of double-sided baseball cards, featuring every member of the team. 

Kim and Jim had no obligation to create and give the boys this kind of souvenir, but they did it anyway. And the cards are absolutely beautiful. 

So tonight, I'm thankful for thoughtful people who give unexpected, meaningful gifts to my kids.

May 25

The weather today reflected my general mood: cloudy with occasional sunshine, and lots of wind. Lots and lots and lots of wind.

I don't now why I was feeling as moody as I was; maybe it's because I slept in far too long. Or maybe it's my unconscious self thinking ahead to Isaac's graduation this Friday. Or maybe it's just my age and my body is misbehaving.

Whatever the reason, I was glad when I looked out the window this evening and saw this physical representation of how I'd been feeling. I know intellectually that He always sees me, but I felt seen by God. And for that, I am grateful.

May 24

Several months back, Pastor Mary floated the idea of having Isaac and Connor --the two high school seniors at our church-- speak on Student Sunday. With graduation looming, it seemed like a good way to allow the two of them to share what they've learned over their years at GraceWay. 

But over time, the directive morphed from "speak" to "deliver the sermon," and honestly, I panicked a little bit. I wasn't worried because I thought Isaac wouldn't have anything to share; in fact, my concerns revolved around him having too much to say. My kiddo is a thinker who has lots of terrific ideas, but he sometimes has difficulty with organizing said-musings. So I prayed --multiple times-- that God would give him the words.

He started working on his remarks a few months ago, and occasionally told me what he intended to share. He changed course a few times along the way, and going into this morning, I had no idea what he would say. 

And he nailed it. It was a beautiful blend of personal testimony and scriptural wisdom and humor. At times, as I sat watching with tears in my eyes, I could hardly believe it was my child up there delivering the message he was sharing. (Lest my humility should fail, I'll add that I know-know that Isaac held the pen and delivered the message, but it was God who planted the words in his heart.) I cannot take credit for who he is --because God is the creator and I'm just a mom who took him to church and talked about Jesus sometimes-- but I am so pleased with how he's choosing to humble himself and live a Christ-centered life.

God is doing a mighty work in him, and I am so grateful to be able to watch him grow. 

If you'd like to hear his sermon, check it out here. His portion begins at the 54-minute mark.

May 23

Isaac and Brady went rafting with the Youth Group today, which meant that Adam, Abby, and I were left to our own devices.

After I cleaned up the kitchen and lingered a while over my coffee and a game on my phone, Abby and I set out on a stroll around the 'hood (while Adam napped).

It was a lovely blue-sky day out, but what struck me most as we walked was the amazing variety of flowers we saw. There were reds and purples and yellows and oranges; roses and irises and petunias and poppies; wild in the field and carefully cultivated in front lawns.

And every single one of them added a vibrancy to the world that no human-created thing could ever manage to add.

So for the loveliness of God's creation (including the loveliest flower of them all in the lower righthand pic), I am grateful.

May 22

I had a second straight pleasant morning with my one and only gal.

As our coffee hour came to a close, I asked what she wanted to do, secretly hoping that she'd reply with something along the lines of "take a walk." And fortunately for me, that's just what she said. And when I suggested the Sports Park, she said that's exactly where she'd been thinking of going.

So that's what we did: I drove over to the other side of town and we hoofed it around the roughly two-mile looping, chatting and enjoying being under clear blue sky along the way.

Time spent with my girl is a blessing, so I am grateful for our walk.

May 21

I had a nice morning with Abby. We went to the Mother Ship and then on to the mall to walk around. On the way back to the house, we took a (second) drink stop at Wendy's before visiting Safeway for some cereal and yogurt.

After lunch, we tuned in to a terrible movie on Lifetime. And then she went outside and spent some time floating on a lounge chair in the pool. 

It was hot outside (think low 90s) so it was a great day to be in (or in her case, on) the water. And as I watched her (and later in the day, the boys) bob along the surface, I felt a great sense of gratitude for the pool. I'm not a swimmer, but I know the kiddos enjoy it. So I am grateful for that blessing.

May 20

I rolled into the driveway this evening as the sun approached the distant horizon.

So I parked the car, got out, and took a long look at the dazzling orange light as it gradually dropped in the sky and eventually disappeared, leaving behind more muted, quieter shades of amber and bluish gray.

Abby asked about my impressions of Heaven this afternoon as we motored from one destination to the next, and I didn't have much of a reply. She correctly noted that many of my musings on the topic revolve around seeing Logan again, and she's right. I do think of hugging Logan and of being reunited with my grandma and grandpa and other loved ones who have gone before me. 

But, she wondered aloud, do I ever just think about being with God? And Jesus? And just existing in a perpetual state of gratitude amid their overwhelming glory? And honestly, the question irked me because I had to say not really. My thoughts do indeed mostly center on people I've known in this life, whose presence I miss, and I sort of resented being called out for my short-sightedness. But she's right that I should look forward to being with my Savior. 

So this evening, when I saw the radiance of the sunset, it reminded me of the radiance of God. And it reminded me to be mindful and grateful for his all encompassing mercy and love. And I felt a sense of gratitude for my girl, whose irritating question spurred significant and definitively worthwhile reflection.

May 19

I had a lovely time coffeeing with these two lovelies this morning.

It was just the usual Mother Ship run, but it's always good to stop, acknowledge, and appreciate the everyday blessings that fill my life with dimension and color.

So today I'm grateful for Abby and Terry, and for how they both add richness and fun to my days.

And I'm also grateful that Abby brought that giant jug of water inside after I dared her to. I didn't expect her to do it, and watching her take sips from such a massive container made me chuckle more than once.

May 18

Abby's checking items off the adulting to-do list. First, she applied to credentialing programs and enrolled at St. Mary's. Then she graduated from college. Yesterday she bought a Costco membership online. And then today, we went by the warehouse so she could get her membership card.

And then after that, when we decided we did need a cart after all, she went outside to get one and re-entered using her brand new card. This is from the moment of her first-ever Costco Entry Beep.

And that was after she went to my Bible study with me and provided valuable insights, courtesy of a class she took this past semester, that greatly informed and enhanced our conversation.

All very adult-y things. And I am grateful for her increasing maturity.

May 17

Today marked opening day of our family's last Babe Ruth Big Season.

As a 15, Brady was given the role of starting pitcher for the Royals, and later moved out to right field. 

He didn't have a great day on the mound. We were playing a very talented team that includes a number of guys he knows quite well from playing with them since they were 13s, and they hit him pretty hard. On the bright side, he did make it through four innings. And he also made two solid defensive plays in right field on a day when heavy winds made the ball dart around in the sky. So those were good things.

But even better, he didn't seem discouraged or overly frustrated after the game. When I asked him to reflect on what happened, he said that the ball felt slick and he just couldn't get a grip on the seams, so it was hard to throw anything off-speed. And his off-speed pitches are his best. So tonight, I'm grateful for his positive attitude amid challenges. 

May 16

It was a lovely, lovely Saturday.

It started with Brady's last freshman game of the season, which wasn't an actual game but an gold versus white intersquad. Everyone got to play, and most of the boys played positions they don't typically take on. Brady had time catching (as in the pic), at third base, and in centerfield, and he successfully made plays at all three positions. He even threw out a runner who was trying to steal third. It was just a fun, laid back game, and I'm thankful that what was often a stressful season came to a close in such an enjoyable way.

From there, we lunched at Mexico Lindo, and then came home and, at Isaac's request, played a round of Yahtzee, which Adam won by a wide margin. (I was the big loser. I just could not roll a full house!)

So yes, it was a low-key family day. And I am grateful to God to have my nestable chicks in the nest once again.

May 15

After spending most of the week at her friend's lakeside bachelorette gathering, our recent college grad returned home today for good.

It's completely insane to realize that it's already been four years since we first dropped Abby off at Wheaton. (And it's even more insane to realize that we'll be dropping Isaac off at Wheaton in just a few months so he can begin his college adventure. Say what?)

Anyway, Isaac was off volunteering at AWANA when she arrived, but Brady was here. And after a few of the requisite "large forehead" remarks changed hands, she literally chased him around the house trying to get a hug. (I'm not sure if he relented or not.)

But then when Isaac did get home, he immediately said hello and gave her a big hug. 

It felt like vintage Wight House action all-around, and I am feeling tremendously blessed to have the gang back together.

May 14

When the boys got home from school this afternoon, they hollered upstairs to let me know that there were two enormous boxes --stuff Abby sent home from school-- by the garage door and asked if I wanted them hauled upstairs.

Since Adam was in Phoenix and my box-lugging skills aren't in what I'd call peak form these days, I took them up on the offer. 

The first of the two packages was large but flat, so they made quick work of it and deposited it on the foyer floor.

The second, however, was much larger. In fact, the listed weight on the label was 78 pounds and given the dimensions of the box, they were unsure that they'd be able to make it up the steps. But they did indeed make it, and now both boxes await Abby's return tomorrow.

That experience of watching them doubt their ability and then get the job done anyway was striking to me. Often, we face obstacles and challenges that seem daunting at first. They're so daunting, in fact, that we sometimes give in to the fear of failure and give up without even trying. But in making that decision, we're cheating ourselves out of moments to learn, since we do indeed learn and grow from both our successes and our failures.

So from a purely practical perspective, I'm grateful for my boys who found that something they perceived as a "challenge" wasn't really much of a challenge at all and by doing so, helped me out. And I'm grateful to God for their desire and willingness to serve.

May 13

Today my mom celebrated her 80th birthday.

I'm not in Maryland, of course, but I called her this afternoon to wish her a happy birthday and to find out how she planned to celebrate the milestone. Her response was fairly simple: "take the day off."

And honestly, although I would've been glad to hear that she was going to a dinner theater show --which is one of her favorite activities-- or out for lunch, I was just as content with the notion that she was having a kick-back day, because for as long as I can remember, she's been a go-getter. I'm glad that she's learned the value of rest and is leaning into it a bit more.

She's taught me many things over the years. She planted the early seeds of my faith and, through her unwavering dedication to her students, she modeled the importance of hard work and commitment to responsibilities. She's intelligent and caring and incredibly stubborn --traits that she passed on to her children-- and adores her people. I am very grateful for all of the ways she's supported me and my family over time.

Happy birthday, Mom! We love you!

May 12

I was in the driveway cleaning out my car this morning when the breeze changed direction and the most delightful scent wafted past my nose.

I should've immediately recognized the aroma, but didn't put two and two together until I walked around the side of the house to toss some trash into the dumpster. It was then that I saw the spray of these lovelies clinging to the fence and remembered.

Jasmine. There's nothing quite as fragrant as some springtime jasmine. (Although our roses are a close second.) I love how God made things for all of our senses to enjoy, and I definitely enjoy the smell of jasmine.

May 11

With graduation weekend in the books and Abby off to Ashley's Bachelorette getaway, Adam, Brady, and I flew back home today. The flights were (thankfully) on time and save some screeching from a toddler in the row behind us, ours travels were uneventful. So I'm grateful for that.

And I'm also thankful for how these two guys of mine took charge of lugging virtually all of our luggage --including two big suitcases and two backpacks Abby sent home with us-- through the airports and out to the car when we arrived in Oakland.

It's nice to feel taken care of, so I'm grateful for their can-do attitude.

May 10

It was a beautiful day to graduate from college. (And a beautiful day for Mother's Day as well, but I definitely wanted my holiday to take a back seat to Abby's accomplishment.)

We (okay, so "we" is mostly "I") took hundreds of photos of everything I could think of to document the day, from my cupcake-cake Mother's Day morning dessert and sweet homemade cards featuring the kids' handprints to the plates of delectable food we practically inhaled during brunch in the school dining hall. And that was all before graduation even happened. 

The ceremony began at three, and just as advertised, Abby was the last grad on her side of the aisle to walk down to the front of the chapel (which meant she led the students out afterward, too. She was pretty jazzed about that). The program was a beautiful mix of worship and acknowledgement of the graduates' accomplishments, and I thoroughly enjoyed both the commencement address given by the CEO of the Museum of the Bible in DC and hearing the names of the students as they walked across the stage. 

Afterward there were hugs and photos with friends, including Laura and her mom Ginger (upper right), who we first met way back at the beginning of freshman year. We have a collection of photos with them from the past four years, so naturally we needed a new one. Isaac had to Uber off to the airport since he has an AP test first thing tomorrow morning, but the rest of us enjoyed dinner at Burger Social. I drew the line at dessert, but my peeps balled out (as Abby says) with milkshakes. Brady had a particularly delicious-slash-heinous creation based on a churro that I half-expected to lead to a high-stakes sugar rush, but he seems okay. In fact, I think he's already asleep.

Adam, Brady, and I head back home tomorrow morning (with several of Abby's bags in tow). The graduate is going to her good friend Ashley's Bachelorette celebration on a lake in Indiana for the next few days, so we'll see her back in the Bay when she formally moves home later this week. 

I don't really know how to fully sum up the day much less the last four years, other than to say that Wheaton is a special place. I feel so blessed that my girl found a home here where she could thrive and feel safe and be loved. I'm endlessly proud of how hard she works and of all of her academic accomplishments (because --mom brag-- they don't recognize Latin honors here with any regalia, but she did graduate Summa Cum Laude). But I'm more proud of who she is and of how she's grown during her time in college. She's a thoughtful, caring, kind, intelligent young woman and on this very special day, I feel extra-specially blessed to be her mom. 

Congratulations, Abby!

May 9

My girl graduates from college tomorrow. I think I can probably say that over and over again and it still won't feel real, because I can absolutely remember the day I graduated from college 26 years ago. In some ways, it feels like yesterday. In others, another lifetime.

Adam's day started bright and early as he went off to Midway to fetch Isaac from his redeye flight, which landed at 5:20. We have two adjoining hotel rooms this go-round so Brady and I remained blissfully unaware of their comings and goings from our side of the wall. (And fortunately for me, my ears did pop --at least enough to enable me to discern when music is way too loud--  by the time I arose.)

We all attained at least a minimally functional level of consciousness at around 10:30, and then made our way over to campus to pick up Abby for lunch. She knows of our collective love for cheese curds and pretzel bites so she suggested Culver's, so off we went. I could feel my heart rise as I watched Abby, Isaac, and Brady sitting together once again, engaging in their usual witty repartee that never fails to make me laugh out loud. 

From there, we went to Target for some immunity gummies and decongestant, since Adam awoke feeling stuffy. I'm looking forward to seeing the Mother's Day cards the kids stopped to make at the little stand just inside the front door! I do love a homemade note.

Then Abby suggested visiting a local flower garden called Lilacia Park. It was super busy because it was apparently Kids' Day, but it was still nice to see the remnants of what was probably a beautiful Springtime spread of tulips and other lovelies.

The English Department had a meet and greet for graduating Seniors and their families set for 3pm, so we went back to campus. Abby bought one last item from Sam's --a pretty blueberry muffin-- and then we spent about 30 minutes mingling with a handful of her professors (and a few of her friends). 

An early dinner at Cane's followed (since Adam nor Brady had ever been and Isaac had given them a very enthusiastic review after his experience last Fall) before we dropped Abby back off at her dorm and returned to the hotel. By then it was probably 7pm, and we were all in low-power mode; Isaac and Adam went to sleep in the other room while I played a game on my phone. I knew Brady really (really) wanted to go to the (indoor) hotel pool, so at 8:30 I said I'd take him down. As I sat watching him bobbing up and down and talking a mile a minute about this and that, it occurred to me that he really likes the water. And also that he's a big sharer. (And I'm thankful for the last part, since I usually know what's going on in his head!) 

And now, well, now it's bedtime. It's crazy to think that by this time tomorrow, Abby will be a college graduate. As she noted in the car this evening, she will have attained the same level of education as her parents. 

And beyond that, she will have written the last sentence of the "college" chapter in her life story. I think her experience at Wheaton has been just what I prayed that it would be four years ago when she began: I remember praying that she'd mature and be more open to adventure, and she is. I prayed that she'd make great, genuine friends, and she did. I know she will miss them and that her heart aches when she thinks about it, but I also know that they're the kind of friends who will always be there for one another, regardless of the miles that separate them physically. I prayed that she would learn a lot, and she has. And I prayed that her faith would be strengthened, and it has.

So for the ways that God has shown Himself to be faithful during my girl's college career, I am grateful. And I'm excited to read the first line in the next chapter of her book.

May 8

It's one of the realities of life these days that air travel, well, sucks. It's unreliable and unpredictable, but on the bright side, you do generally get where you're going. Eventually. And now that I'm on the other side of today's iteration of eventually, I can write.

Abby graduates from Wheaton on Sunday. I have no idea how we're already here, but here we are nonetheless! (And I'm far too tired and stuffy to wax poetic but hopefully later.)  Adam, Brady, and I left the house at 7 this morning intending to board a 9:30 flight to Salt Lake, and then continue on to Chicago. (Isaac had an AP test at noon so he's on a later flight. Thank you to Terry for giving him a ride to the airport! You're a lifesaver.) 

Well, the 9:30 thing didn't happen (although we did get to sit on a plane at the gate for an hour before they decided it wasn't happening). We were rebooked onto a flight through San Diego which left two hours later, but because the southernmost section of Southern California is in the exact opposite direction as our eventual target, it meant hours were added to our total travel time. (You can mentally insert the Whomp Whomp sound here.)

But we did have mostly peaceful flights. I did get to watch "Celebrity Jeopardy" and several episodes of "The Simpsons" with Brady on his phone and I did give him a packet of sugar which he actually ate. And we did get here. We did get our rental car quickly and the one bag we checked was the sixth one to emerge from the shoot on the baggage carousel. And we did get to our hotel. And though we didn't get Culvers (boo) because it was already closed by the time we rolled into town, we did settle for McDonalds. And that was okay.

And now... now I'm tired. My ears also haven't popped at all (which is a consistent thing for me, unfortunately... who says it only happens to little kids?) so I can't hear squat. (Of course, that meant Adam and Brady could blast Morgan Wallen in the car and I literally had no clue until one of them remarked on how it was three times as loud as I'd ever allow.) And I'm still stuffy. 

But I'm grateful to be in town to watch my girl graduate from college. All the travel troubles aside, that is a big blessing.

May 7

Isaac had an AP test this afternoon and Brady did not have practice, but that information wasn't triangulated particularly well between the three of us. So the end result was Brady standing out by the kid-car for 15 minutes after school before he finally messaged me to ask who was planning to ferry him home.

I scurried over to the meeting spot and picked him up. After I apologized for the goof, we ran an errand to CVS and then went over to the Mother Ship to get him an "oops, my bad" treat of his choice. (And of course I had a coconut cream cold brew, too, since I was already there and all.)

To his credit, he took the whole thing in stride, going so far as to assume some of the responsibility for the lack of communication. (And he graciously accepted a chocolate chip cookie.)

He may not be graduating from anything this month like his siblings are, but he's still growing up like a boss. And I am grateful to be part of his journey.

May 6

I had to venture into the boys' bathroom this afternoon to deliver some face soap, and I was shocked by what I found inside.

Although I was mentally prepared to see the domestic equivalent of a toxic waste dump, the countertop and sinks were actually organized and clean.

I rubbed my eyes and blinked hard a few times to be sure I was actually seeing what my brain said it saw, and yep, still clean.

I'm so proud of Isaac and Brady for finally cleaning up their shared space because it shows that they're continuing to grow and mature and take responsibility for themselves. So I am grateful to God for that reality.

May 5

Adam was in Oregon on business for a few days. I picked him up from BART this evening while the boys were at Youth Group and we were able to head out to our customary Tuesday night dinner, this time at Black Bear.

It was nice and quiet inside --which was particularly pleasant to me, since I felt like I had a headache coming on at the time-- and I felt a sense of contentment as I sat there in a booth eating my omelet and catching up on the past few days' activities.

I adore my kiddos, but I also enjoy this time we've set aside each week to be alone together. After all, Scripture tells us that feeding a marriage with love and energy is essential.

May 4

I went to Walmart this morning in search of a second pair of swimming trunks for Brady. As I entered the store, a man stood near the entrance holding a clipboard. I gave him half a glance and dismissively said that I'd already signed all the petitions. He caught my fleeting gaze and smiled, and then pointed down at my shirt --which featured a Bible verse about love-- and said that that was the most important thing of all and that he'd found out about it two years ago. I smiled in return and continued into the store, but his words lingered in the back of my mind as I navigated up and down the aisles and to the self-checkout counter.

By the time I exited the store, he was seated at a small card table. I turned to wave and said God bless you, which he returned with a big smile. I continued out to the car, and that's when I heard God telling me to go talk to him some more. 

I don't mean that I literally heard the voice of God --I wish-- but I got the sense that He wanted me to have a more extended conversation with this guy. It was a feeling in my chest. I got in my car and asked for a sign (since apparently the feeling wasn't enough for me). Nothing happened. So I said "okay, God, if my car doesn't start right away when I push the button, I'll take that as a sign." The engine turned over right on cue, but I still felt like I was ignoring a prompt. Because I'm a stubborn gal, I drove halfway back up the aisle toward the exit  before I finally changed course, glided into a new space, and cut the engine. I wasn't entirely sure what I was going to say or exactly why I was supposed to go talk to this man, but I knew I'd be sorry if I didn't. 

So I got out of the car, walked up to him, and said "well, the Lord told me that I needed to come talk with you some more. I'm not entirely sure why, but I try to listen when He provides instructions." And this guy's face lit up like a Christmas tree. He asked my name and introduced himself as Sherman. What followed was a brief history of his life and how he came to discover --through many difficulties and challenges-- the saving grace of Jesus Christ. I honestly don't remember much of what he said because my memory isn't my best attribute these days, but I do recall him repeatedly saying that he's been saved and that he just wants people to know that God loves them, because if He can love a sinner like him who has done bad, bad things, He can love anyone. I encouraged him to keep walking in faith no matter what the future may bring, and he thanked me for coming back to talk. 

Initially, I was arrogant enough to think that I was going to be the one ministering to him, but the reality is that I think it was the other way around, because although his story rambled, the message was clear: Jesus saves. So for his story of redemption and for the unexpected reminder that grace is truly free, I am so thankful.

May 3

A few years ago, I posted about my maiden experience with cleaning the washing machine filter. (It was quite the dramatic incident.) It's been cleaned out several times since then, but I fully admit that I detest doing it so it'd been a hot second since its last good rinse. 

Anyway, as Adam folded laundry this afternoon and noted that Brady's newly washed jacket still didn't smell particularly fresh, I mused that the filter needed to be cleaned. And I told him that when he was finished folding, we should go upstairs so I could show him how it's done.

A few minutes later I looked over and saw Isaac standing by the kitchen sink, holding something in a stream of hot water. When I asked him what he was up to, his response startled me: "cleaning the filter." While Adam and I made plans to deal with the problem, Isaac Googled instructions and got to work without saying a word. (I added the bit about blasting the filter with a hose, which is what he was doing in the pic. It was satisfyingly effective.) 

I love how he so often takes on the jobs that no one else wants; how he's willing to humble himself and tackle menial tasks just because he knows they need to be done. I see Jesus in the way he gives of his time to be with and serve others. So for his heart, I am so grateful. And humbled, because I may be his mom, but he definitely teaches me lessons, too.

May 2

The experience of being a baseball mom probably isn't a unique one, but it's definitely distinctive since baseball is a sport that's marked by more failure than success. And that's why it's vitally important to have mom friends with you in the trenches as the season wears on.

We're bleacher warriors. We cheer the successes and lament the difficulties not as single people, but as a unit. We're perpetually hopeful for the best, but also keenly aware that anything can happen during the course of a seven inning game so we're always ready to shout out the good plays while simultaneously addressing and then putting to bed the ones that don't shine.

We notice more than you think we do. In fact, we know far more than you'd guess about the sport and about which kid on the roster is the best choice to pinch hit and which has a wicked, Varsity-worthy curve. We know, and we sometimes share those nuggets with one another, but for the most part, we keep those thoughts to ourselves.

And we do that because at the end of the day, we're just there to support our boys; to celebrate wins and to offer listening ears after losses. So today, I'm grateful to God for the community that I've found this year in my fellow baseball moms, like Shelley and Brooke. Without them, watching games would be a lot less fun.

May 1

This picture --which was taken about 15 years ago-- hangs on a wall in the first floor of our house. It's in a well-traveled location, so I pass it numerous times each day, and every now and then I stop and take a close look at who we all used to be.

It's a snapshot of what feels like an entire lifetime ago, with baby Brady and grumpy Isaac and little girl Abby. And, of course, Logan wearing a tired yet resilient version of his signature grin. That's part of why I love this picture as much as I do despite its obvious "flaws" -- he's in it. The six of us are all together. There aren't a lot of photos of our entire family in existence and there will never be a new one, so I treasure the ones I do have.

So tonight, as I think back on and give thanks for what was and look forward and give thanks for whatever will be, I am grateful to God for the gift of photography. Because during this phase of my life, I definitely need pictures to help me remember the details.

April 30

I've been gradually replacing the plants in my hydro garden, and yesterday, I moved this happy little guy from my seedling tray to his own slot.

Most of the seedlings I've transferred thus far have been ordered online, but this one began as a seed in my kitchen window. I'm hopeful that he will continue to get bigger and produce some robust kale leaves for us to munch in the months to come.

I've said it before (probably lots of times), but I so enjoy growing plants. And I especially like watching them sprout from seeds. Seeing God's handiwork literally expand and flourish into a plant that can provide nutrition for my family amazes me. 

The world would be a better place if we could all find God in something as tiny and unassuming as a seed; if we could just see the gifts inherent in the smallest of things.

April 29

Last Fall, as her senior year began, I offered to pay for a photographer to capture images of Abby and her besties at school. I found Shelly Lambert (who is a fellow Wheaton mom), paid for a session, and left it up to my girl to decide the details: the when, the who, and the where. The session ultimately took place a few weeks ago, and today, we received a link to the gallery.

The "who" were the Sophomore year suite girls, who have been her go-to pals all throughout her time at Wheaton. The "where" was --very appropriately, I think-- all around campus. And the "what they wore" were their white grad dresses. 

The photos came out really nicely. There are beautiful photos of each of these beautiful girls. And there are numerous pictures of them together laughing and having a good time, just as they've done for the past four years. They're a gift to my Abby, of course, so she can look back at them and remember her time in Illinois. 

And they're also a gift to these very special girls who have become dear to my heart. I will always be grateful to God for Michaela, Anna, Meredith, and Ashley for being a big part of why Abby has had a  wonderful college experience. Their love and support throughout this phase of my girl's life has meant so much to her -- and to me as well. 

Good friends are great blessings. And I am deeply grateful for the ones God gave my daughter.

April 28

I laid low today. Very low. I just hung around the house by myself and rested. But I was admittedly a little lonely.

So my favorite part of the day came this evening when the boys got home from Youth Group and we were all gathered in the family room.

I asked each of them to tell us about their respective experiences at school, and they did. Isaac went first and took a while; he's always been one to ramble a bit, but we always appreciate the details he includes. Brady followed with his patented quick rundown of his activities. And then they were off to bed.

And in the quiet that re-settled around me following their departure, I had what felt like a profound thought that isn't really profound at all: I'm grateful that they share their lives with us, since I know the communication lines with teenagers are often intermittently open at best. Hearing their thoughts and ideas is a blessing.

April 27

I am super proud of this kid. (The one on the right with the rake in the foreground.)

And it's not because he's a solid player (although he is one). 

It's because he throws himself into all of his tasks --even the menial ones that a lot of kids try to get out of doing. And he doesn't just do them halfway; he buckles down and completes them to the best of his ability.

He is truly a team player, and I am grateful to God that He's instilled this child of mine with a good work ethic.

One can be a great player without being a good person, so I'm thankful that Brady so consistently checks both of those boxes.

April 26

It was quite chilly today, especially for late-April.

So I was pleased to be able to revert to one of my Winter customs after church: I pulled out my trusty electric blanket and wrapped it around my legs and feet.

And there I sat quite comfortably watching a pair of baseball games on the tube for much of the afternoon.

The extra warmth was a little thing, but it certainly made my day better, so I'm thankful to have had it.

April 25

Well, I blinked again, and now this kid is in San Francisco, enjoying his Senior Ball with his pals at the Metreon.

It's utterly bizarre to realize that I made a very similar post to this almost four years ago, when Abby too went to her Senior Ball at the Metreon. (And it's weird because Ball isn't always there. We'll have to see where Brady's class winds up going!) But here we are in 2026, and she's getting ready to graduate from college and it's Isaac's turn to celebrate the waning days of a high school career. It's truly surreal to think that's it's been four years. But I'm digressing all over the place so I'll get back to today.

I left the second game of Brady's doubleheader against Granada a bit early this afternoon so I could catch Isaac at home before he headed off to his friend Ben's house, also known as the official Ball meeting spot for his squad. He kindly humored me with a few pics outside in the yard before I followed him to Ben's to take more photos.

I was the only parent there except for Ben's mom and dad, so I made sure to take pics with Isaac and some of his longtime pals to share. And then poof, they were out the door en masse, bound for the buses that were reserved to ferry them to the big event. I stood outside and watched them drive away caravan-style, one car after another after another. I smiled at the ones I knew best, and as Isaac passed by, he slowed and enthusiastically waved the I Love You hand in my direction. And then continued down the hill and past the gate and disappeared from sight.

He went to elementary school with some of these boys, so he's known them for most of his life. In fact, Tyler (upper left)'s family moved to town when they were in (I think) second grade, and he's been one of Isaac's closest friends for years. And he's known Trevor since before they started kindergarten (and then t-ball) together.

So suffice it to say that when I look at some of these guys and think back on the history they share, it makes me smile. And it fills me with a sense of gratitude for the depth and quality of some of Isaac's friendships. God has blessed him with some truly exceptional pals, and I'm so thankful for them and for how they've leaned on one another throughout the years. And although I have mixed mom-feelings about them all being 17 and 18 years old and looking so grown up when my heart thinks they should still be little boys playing with sticks in the mud, I'm grateful that they're growing into terrific young men. 

And of course, I'm extra thankful that God is continuing to shape Isaac into the man He wants him to be. And I pray that they're all having a great time together, truly savoring the moments and taking mental snapshots to hold close to their hearts during the time of transition that's on the horizon.