To My College Kids

I always thought life would be slower, easier, and cheaper once the birdies started leaving the nest.  

I imagined lots of extra time, energy, and cash, and less worries.

Wrong-o.

I love that Taylor and Britta are learning to be responsible, independent adults, but I hate that I don't get to see them much.  I'm happy that they are busy pursuing their education and dreams, but I miss their newly-acquired adult perspectives.  I miss their presence.  And I spend a dang lot of time thinking about them, worrying about them, and praying for their success and well-being.

They've had a few struggles lately.  Taylor can't find a job in his tiny college town, and has resorted to plasma donation... two times a week.

Britta is tired of non-stop schooling (no breaks since 2008, if you count her senior year in high school).
Burned out.  In desperate need of a break.

As I readied myself for church yesterday, I couldn't help thinking about this message:

(It was pure coincidence that this exact message was shared in Relief Society, just hours later.)

So, just in case those awesome kids are in need of encouragement, I felt the need to share.

This weekend's good news:  

Bill helped Tay and Britt with their tax returns, and both will be receiving some much needed moo-lah.  YES!

Bill completed our tax return, and we will be receiving some much needed moo-lah too.

After noticing Tay's dwindled bank accounts, we transferred in a little money for groceries.
The next day he sent us a big thank you, and this:

It does my heart good to know he's got plenty to eat.