Jake’s unexpected time at home was just under two weeks, but it went by so quickly that it felt like two days. The four brothers did a lot of bonding–usually late at night. I would see the light still on at 11:00, make my way downstairs to tell them to get to bed, then see this:

They spent hours sharing memories from years past, mostly laughing. How could I put a stop to that?

We went to Great America for a day.

Seeing these guys walk around together

reminded me of another group of four guys.

The thrill rides did not disappoint.

Ruth hung with her brothers for almost all of the rides, though she opted out of Giant Drop. You either love the drops, or you don’t!

The next day, Jake got to spend time with Sam. They came back and played some pool,

and made s’mores. Grandma and Grandpa came out to see Jake one more time before he left for school.

Jake had bought a one-way plane ticket home, with the goal of finding a car here that he would drive back to school. That goal was accomplished, and after spending an afternoon at Uncle Dave’s learning how to detail a car, he returned with a sparkling clean automobile.

The first thing he packed into his new car? The telescope…leaving a bare corner in the front of the house. Now when I sit in my quiet time chair in the morning, this is what I see–a constant reminder that my oldest is out of the house and on his own.

He left long before the crack of dawn on Friday to make the drive back to USAFA. While Jim and I brewed him some coffee for the road, Molly headed out with him for one last goodbye. It was no surprise to come out and find him gazing up at the stars.

I was so thankful to God for the time Jake was home, realizing that these times with the seven of us are dwindling.