One of my recurring dreams is not having my children’s lunches packed for school. My kids have since flown the coop and packing lunches is no longer a part of my daily routine, but for some reason that dream keeps popping up.  Maybe it has to do with the fact that I’m always going to be a mother and want to make sure my kids are cared for.

I’ve gone through all that parenting stuff – all the anxiety that comes with raising children – all the hopes and dreams for them – all the prayers – being a mom is a lifetime thing.  I still pray that they have success in life.  I want them to be happy.  I want to help with advice, without overstepping my bounds.  I want them to know I care about them, but want them to be independent.

As parents get ready to send their children off to school – some may be ready to push them out the door while others wish they could cling to them for a while longer.  We have our children for such a short time, we have to make sure we make the most of each precious moment.

Enjoy the process of pushing them out of the nest and letting them find themselves.  Continue to let them know that you’re there to pick them up if they need you to.  Encourage them along the way.  You’re the best support system they have for the time being.  When they’re old enough to leave your home, let them feel that the door is always open.

Pray for your children.  They’re are gift from God and if you place them in His hands, they have a good chance of overcoming all the difficulties this world offers.

So whether you have tears in your eyes as you drop them off at school, or you’ve been through this enough to know that they’re ready to start a new chapter in their lives – don’t forget to pack their lunches!