Well, we had another wonderful visit with our Daughter today, and we had a few more photos taken to capture the event. It was a special time of sharing stories, experiences, goals, and most of all we shared a lot of laughs. Yesterday's good-bye was tough, but we knew we were coming back today. Today's good-bye was much tougher. I really did not want to release her from my arms. I did not want it to end, because we will not get to see her now until she returns home, hopefully around May, June or July. Oh my, I cannot even begin to tell you how difficult it was to walk out that door, but life is not always easy. In the larger scheme of things however, we were so pleased with how things have changed in regard to her level of maturity, and she has accomplished so much. She has completed her GED, and she was awarded her High School diploma, and in addition to that, she has been enrolled in a college level diploma program, and has completed several courses already in child psychology as she prepares for her return home. We are so proud of her. It was so neat to hear her talking about her goals, and how she wants to take all that has happened to her and use it to help other young people struggling with some of the same issues she experienced. Then to have our Son there too, listening to them talk to each other, and hearing them share their experiences with each other, wow, it was so healthy for the two of them. Our Children have come a long way, and as Parents, we thank God daily for how He has intervened in their lives, and for what He has done in getting their lives back on track. Well all good things must come to an end. The drive home was gorgeous. A lonbg but beautiful sunny day, and the leaves are beginning to come alive. We finally arrived home about 9:00pm. We unpacked the car, and then we had to return out rental van, and now I am trying to post my photo for the day, and perhaps comment on some photos, at least until I start to doze off.
a fav, not only because its a lovely shot, but because your visit was awesome, and you have a wonderful family, that soon will be whole and almost healed again.. :) we all have hard lessons to learn in life, glad your daughter is getting her life on track, and has a positive outlook... love to you and Mrs Rick.... Tell her I need to chat with her... :) :)
I love how the curve in the highway mimics the curves in life. The shadow silhouettes of the trees on the right prevent one from seeing the end of that road but the shadow of the guard rail provides guidance along the highway. This one also seemed profound, Rick. I can't imagine how hard it was to say goodbye to Stefanie, but I'm so glad that you and your family got to spend such quality time with her.
Here comes Fall around the bend . . beautiful capture, Rick. The lighting and pov are wonderful here. God has blessed you and your family in many ways. Stay happy!!
Beautiful shot of the trip. This shot really feels like fall. I am so glad you had such a positive visit with your daughter and soon you will all be together again. How wonderful she has such a great supportive family. Wishing you all the very best in the coming year.
It certainly does look a picturesque drive home , those trees are so beautiful ! It is hard saying goodbye but when we say goodbye to our boys in NZ I think as long as they are happy that's all that matters !
Rick such an emotive shot... and I have a lump in my throat. I know how incredibly hard it was to say that goodbye.... but time does fly and it won't be long before you will be reunited again. So wonderful that you are such a loving family and that is worth so, so much!
Sleep well and sound Rick & Josie - God has once again travelled with you and returning home you can run over that visit in you minds, and Count your Blessing one by one.
Bautfiul shot Rick.
So good to hear you are home safe & sound and that your children are doing well. It must do your heart good to hear this from them.
Beautiful fall colors and a not too busy highway..this is what I'm hoping for to see. we are havig our Thanksgiving Dinner with my son and family and also the family of my daughter-in-law with be present.
Parenthood is the toughest "job," isn't it, Rick? It doesn't come with an owner's manual either. It's a learn-as-you-go with all the trials-and-tribulations and, we hope, the successes however they come. God be with you and your family!
Beautiful angle for this photo but most of all, your words touched my heart. I know not what your daughter has endured for challenges but I am so in awe of you as a family as you gather together to try to give strength to each other and so much love!!!! May God bless all of you!
Beautiful scene. It sounds like you had a great visit with your daughter, too. I always love when I have all 4 of mine together, but it's less often now that 2 of them are grown and gone.
Wonderful that you had this time together. Hopefully, she will be home again soon. (I've been so busy grading and lesson planning that I am sorry that I am behind. I'm trying to catch up now!)
So good to hear you are home safe & sound and that your children are doing well. It must do your heart good to hear this from them.