In 2024, I reflected on what I was releasing ( The Release). The most significant was releasing my son into adulthood as he turned 18 and prepared to go away to college.

In 2025, life pivots brought him home to work and continue his schooling.

He returned home different. He had new perspectives and new habits. He was experienced yet still had much to learn.

He returned to a different home. Our perspectives and our family rhythm had been shaped by his absence.

It was a challenging adjustment. Each of us wrestled with the grief of unmet expectations. We balanced hard conversations with space and grace. We opened ourselves to rediscovering what was possible.

His return triggered another release. In trying to respect my young adult, I quickly realized- it’s one thing to pray and release from afar but something entirely different to pray and release up close, in real time.

I had to

ask questions,

set & respect healthy boundaries,

choose to hear what wasn’t being said,

and recognize where I was projecting my issues instead of acknowledging his.

It’s been a continual exercise in

encouraging,

affirming,

challenging,

advising,

and sometimes stepping aside to let him feel the full weight of his “adult” decisions.

Parenting in this season of life has stretched me in ways I didn’t know I needed. Some days I feel like I’m fighting for my life in the trenches but I’m grateful for the ways God continually shows himself strong, whispering grace where I see missteps.

My second born (the grand finale) is a teenager coming into her own. She’s watching and taking notes. I know her release will look different from her brother’s .

Our children may resemble us, but they are not us. They have a story, a place and a purpose all their own. We can’t negate the free-will God has given them nor underestimate His grace and transformative power at work in their lives. We can’t know all the future holds for them but we can trust and surrender it all to the One who does.

“Keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfector of our (and our children’s) faith.” – Hebrews 12:2

Grateful for… The honor of nurturing the future. (Gratitude in Six Words)