full circle / transformation

L - Nikon / T - phone pic

What's old is new again. So many things are coming full circle these days. The film cameras, lps and the record players, vintage style for home decorating and clothing, back to basics, etc.

Sometimes as children become teens we think what happened to my sweet child. But they seem to come back around too. We as parents, worry when our children go through many changes while growing up and spreading their wings. My daughter has never really caused me much heartache or worry but we all know children aren't perfect and I have to admit there have been some periods where she kept me up at night - literally. But this summer of her 21st year I am aware that she has become a mature young woman in her attitude and behavior; and I might add, a truly delightful one. This summer with her has been pure joy for me and she seems to have felt the same. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for her as she finishes her senior year in college and how she will use her many talents.

There is a scripture I always hung on to through the bumpy patches.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6

Her newest creation of the butterfly seems perfectly fitting. She has developed into a beauty.


“How does one become a butterfly” she asked pensively “You must want to fly so much you are willing to give up being a caterpillar.” “You mean die?” “Yes and no,” he answered. “What looks like you will die, but what’s really you will still live” —–From Hope For The Flowers

This really has been one of the most fulfilling summers I’ve had in a very long time. Being back in Atlanta and surrounded by the strength and love of my family throughout the past three months has really grounded me and made me realize the characteristics and traits that I want to further develop in my final year of school. Always striving to be productive, making sure I am resourceful in my endeavors, and being appreciative and respectful (essentially treating others as I would want to be treated) of those around me are all things that I have worked on during my time here. Of course I’m not insinuating that I wasn’t any of these things before! I was raised and taught by them! I’ve been immersed in an unbelievably caring and uplifting environment for my entire life. But I believe that I have grown and matured an immeasurable amount – that, I am very pleased with and proud of. This summer will provide a wonderful foundation for my last year at UGA and has shed a very nice light on the things I need to focus on.