Well, the kids start school next week. Quite frankly, that fact hit me from out of the blue on Monday. I thought we had a couple more weeks of summer vacation until I looked at the calendar. And when I realized they return to school and schedule next week, I was deeply saddened. Seriously, I almost started crying.

I think this summer has probably been our best summer as a family. These last few months have been a solid time for us a family. The kids were phenomenal. They interacted remarkably well the entire summer. Last summer, Michael spent a lot of time with friends. But this summer, he seemed very content to be at home, hanging out with the family and playing with his other three siblings. Knowing that will eventually change as he matures through his teen years has made me appreciate his closeness to us this summer.

This summer, Michael and Catherine also joined a Jr. High youth group at my friend’s church. They seem to be connecting well and their youth pastor says they have brought a wonderful dynamic to the group. It brings joy to my heart knowing that my kids have stepped into their own, contributing spiritually and socially to their peers.

Danielle and Christopher continue to amaze me with their precious childlike qualities. I love just watching them interact with people and the world around them. My babies aren’t babies any more.

And I know that are kids are so great because of Deb. She has nurtured them in incredible ways. This has been all the more evident during the last 2 1/2 years with no children’s program or church structure. Just through daily life, she has formed service, compassion, worship and prayer in them in ways that no program or structure could ever do. She’s the most amazing woman I know.

God has surely blessed me with a wonderful wife and four great kids. They make my life worth living well. Lord, I am so thankful.