This mornings college tour took us to Florida Southern in Lakeland. This is where my college roommate grew up. I have spent time there in years past. I was excited to show the beautiful lake front college. It was a smaller campus and several buildings were built by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Write. Very modern lines and amazing facilities on their campus. New construction is ongoing which always says good things to me regarding growth and their future incoming students. They have some really neat programs and ways to get involved.
We had a good time, very informational and I am enjoying seeing her get excited about college. It is good to see her decide what she likes and doesn’t like. Getting a feel for campus life and size. What is important to her and what is not. I forgot what this was like when I was going through this process at her age. Okay, let’s be honest, I didn’t want to go to college, I wanted to be a Rockette! Thank the sweet Lord my mother prayed me into college! That college is where I met my life long best friend. She no longer lives in that area, but her parents do. I was so happy to see her mom today. We were able to meet up for lunch. It was like going back in time! I felt like I did at 18 being with her again! She is the sweetest lady and we were so glad our meet up worked out. In todays covid times, we weren’t sure we would be able to get together. But it all worked out. We got to catch up and share stories. I love more than anything that these people have been in my life (though not as much as I would like) for nearly 30 years. My roommate and I were placed together by God! He knew we would need each other both at college and after. We were in one anothers weddings. She came to be there for me when Adam died. She has always been just a phone call away. No matter how much time passes between seeing each other, or phone calls, it is like no time has passed. We pick right back up where we left off! Her friendship has been such a blessing to me.
People come in our lives for a season sometimes. Some people remain life long friends who regardless of how much time passes between visits or phone calls, we pick right back up where we left off. It is like we have never been apart. Some people we have to say goodbye to and let them go forever. Sometimes it is hard, other times it is easy. Some are by choice and some are not. Seasons come and go, so do friendships, relationships, and children.
I know that this trip with the one who first made me a mom has been filled with beautiful moments. We have had some much needed time together. I know she is only with me for a season and that this season is quickly coming to an end. My job as her mom is to raise her up in the way she should go and send her out into the world to become the person God has planned for her to become. We only have a short time to parent our children. It is crucial that we invest in them and in their future. The days are long but the years are short. We have toured, tanned, giggled, danced, sung, eaten pizza and cheesecake in our beds while watching Americas Next Top Model. We have found adventure, gotten lost, found fun new places, and discussed a multitude of things. I will be sad to see this trip come to an end. I will cherish the memories we have made during this time together. She is not only my daughter, but also my friend.
Proverbs 29:7 "A good friend refreshes the soul."
Sowing tears and reaping joy 