Six

This past weekend we celebrated our youngest daughter’s sixth birthday. The reality that my daughters are growing fast sunk deep. Not sure why it hit me so hard this year, but it did.

I know I echo many fathers who attest being able to vividly remember bringing their babies home. I remember the short time she used to sleep right next to my side of the bed in her bassinet. And now she’s old enough to ask me to ride the “Log Chute” ride at the Mall of America while assuring me that the water only splashes, and that it doesn’t get you wet. (Public Service Announcement: It does get you wet.)

Time is flying by.

This past weekend we also marked the sixth week of gathering as Bloom. I have no idea where the time has gone. I’m finding myself remembering starting our launch team meetings in my basement and how we used an overturned trash can with a sheet on it as a podium. I’m remembering Luke leading worship and the pile of shoes in our entry way.

As I reflect on it all, I’m reminding myself how important it is to pause and take it all in. I’m reminding myself how important memories are as souvenirs for the soul. As my kids grow and as Bloom takes root, I must remember what a gift these years are.

Because tomorrow is fast approaching.