The last family member has just driven away. The refrigerator overflows with leftovers. My phone is packed with pictures commemorating a weekend of celebration – sparkly dresses, beautiful women, handsome men and adorable  children.

My son has taken a wife and I have a new daughter. Except for about 30 minutes prior to the ceremony, I think I held it together pretty well. And when I did lose it, I was standing with a wonderful friend who let me sob on her shoulder. The tears were cleansing – my heart just couldn’t hold anymore.

My wonderful family showed up in a big way. Uncles, aunts, cousins – all came out in force – from California and Texas, northern & southern Illinois, Cubs & Cardinal fans united for one evening to witness the beautiful, light-filled wedding of David & Tristen.

Life makes a dramatic change now. I’m excited to spend time and attention on my loving and patient husband. He has encouraged and supported me as we’ve partnered to teach our boys a curriculum of life. I feel as though my homeschooling journey is truly over now. No more students at home – our kids (now men) have graduated into real life &  it’s time for them to use what they’ve learned & observed.

Maybe I’ll pick up long ignored hobbies, or learn new ones. I’m planning more time with extended family. Softball & baseball games as an aunt & uncle sound pretty good. Probably need a couple new padded camp chairs.

Thank you to everyone who helped us pull together a gorgeous wedding – lots of chairs & tables moved, food made & served, makeup applied, lights strung, candles lit, pictures taken and floors swept. I hope you know how very much we appreciate the love shown to us by the work completed. We truly could not have done it without you.