My baby is all grown up

A new dawn unfolds as we took our baby girl to college today.  The last of our beautiful daughter's to move out and move on in their lives.

Alicia packs the last of her things for college.

Of course I am thrilled and super supportive of Alicia going away to college to discover her life dreams and witness her reaching life goals she's set for herself.  Yet, it came with a few tears that never fully formed, they just filled my eyes.  "She's my baby, my precious little girl who has been sheltered from most of life's yuck."  

Alicia was a great sport as we helped her unpack her belongings.  She didn't mind that I hung her bath towels neatly in her closet, and I didn't mind when she simply took them back down.  She's all grown up, a young woman, a beautiful high spirited soul ready to soar in her world.  I just stared at her, wanting to memorize everything about her beautiful self.  Her room warming smile, her pretty brown hair flowing over her shoulders.  The red high school sweatshirt she wore to stay warm proved evidence she was not too proud and still had some high school humility.  Her short shorts....oh yes, she could have left those behind, but she really does have the most beautiful legs...and I'd much rather her keep them covered than to show them off to any wandering eyed boy.  I hate to let her go....I hate to see her change....I hate the thought that something may happen to her....but I trust we've prepared her to stand proud and stand firm in a good up bringing.

Alex, Alicia, and Anna

came to help get Alicia settled in

This is it....the first time Michael and I have ever been alone....just the two of us.  Not even when we first got married as Amanda was 2 years old when that happened.  I think we're ready, I think we'll be okay, and I hope to stay focused on all the good things, but I won't stop praying.