Heading Into a New Stage of Life

Time, life and all that goes with them never stops moving forward.

Our time on Earth is little more than a grain of sand in the hourglass of the Universe, and thus I want to make the most of what I have.

I've been extra reflective lately after Emily chose where she was going to college.

It is a weird process as you go from the excitement and stress of exploring, applying and awaiting decisions from colleges. Then it suddenly flips to the waiting game to see how those that say yes will (or won't) help you pay for the privilege of going to their school. Then, finally, you look at the numbers and make a choice.

Arizona State University is where my daughter will be starting in the fall.

Once this decision was made it kicks off a new series of activities including figuring out move-in schedules, orientation, housing and everything else that goes with the first-year experience.

I'm excited for her to start the next phase of her life, but at the same time, I realize that we are about to start the next stage as well because at the end of August we will be home alone without children for the first time in two decades.

The reality of flipping the calendar of life to a new page has been eating at my heart and head a bit more than it should. Being wired the way I am, it has me wondering how many more pages are left in my calendar.

As I grow older, I'm finding myself appreciating each day a bit more. Every sunrise brings a smile to my face. Every hug a bit longer because I don't want to let go.