Growing up

"The days are long but the years are short."

Abiel and I have recently been enjoying each other immensely. She is 11 and the years are getting shorter and shorter with her. Tonight as we were driving alone together, she said, "In only 7 years I'll be 18!" NOOOOO! Say it isn't true! That's not enough time. I anticipate ups and downs in the next 7 years, but for right now, I am storing up the treasures in my heart of all our meaningful conversations, sharing life's joys and heartaches, and learning about life together. As we chat, I remember so vividly, the emotions that accompany the emergence of young adulthood. She's handling it beautifully. I couldn't be more thankful for the opportunity to live it with her rather than observe it all from the outside. I'm beyond thankful that she is inviting me into her world, her emotions, her thoughts. I think it's the best gift I've received in a very, very, very long time. I love you, Abiel. Thank you for trusting me with your heart.