This week my kids will come home for a few days.

My baby girl has been living in a dorm since August, and my son has an apartment.

First time empty nesters over here.

My heart is doing better than I thought it would to be honest.

However, some days, it hits like a brick falling from the blue sky.

This post has been many years in the making. However, I will only share a tidbit today.

Really, it’s been a story of perseverance, HOPE, faith, discipline and obedience.

As a mother, I feel a deep urge to share this to spur you on in your own faith journey. At times, I just wanted to hold these things close to my heart.

However, I believe God desires us to share our stories. To encourage each other and help light the path for each other when it is hard to see.

I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. Psalm 9:1

I remember it so well. It was exactly one year ago.

Sitting at the top of the stands in the volleyball arena, flanked by my family and friends, I held tight to a small wooden cross.

The time had finally come. My daughter’s dream of going to the State Championship game with her high school team was happening.

She had gone once before— her Sophomore year, but they did not win.

Now, here she was, a senior. Her last chance to clench that title. Her last chance EVER.