OFF TO SEE THE WORLD

Today, my youngest son, Ian leaves on a trip to London, England and Dublin, Ireland. It started out as a lecture class for his MBA and was a 3 day visit. Somehow...he has managed to turn it into a 10 day trip. He and 2 of his buddies are going a couple days early to be able to see more of London. Then as the other students head back to the states, these 3 have arranged to route themselves through Dublin and are spending several days there. Ian has always had this ability to milk a situation for all it can possibly hold. Always one to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself, this sweet son of mine loves life. He has had a wonderful time in college and has been a part of everything that has come his way. I really don't know of many boys who have been so involved. He has held a part time job most of the years, and held down a full time job some of the time. He has kept his grades up...not perfect but all "A" and "B". Two summers ago he was able to turn a week long class in Prague into a 3 week trek through Europe. He made all the arrangements and schedules and had a ball. And now he is out for one last "hurrah". He graduates in May....then he'll become part of the "real world."
He is leaving from Atlanta this evening and will be home on Christmas Eve.

I must take this opportunity to thank God for blessing Don and I with this child. He was a surprise baby...Alex was only 16 months old when Ian was born. And then he was born with a cleft lip and palatte. Quickly I learned about how to care for a child with this deformity and it wasn't easy. He has had 12 surgeries on his face. But, isn't he handsome now? He truly does have a "million dollar smile!" He has also dealt with a heart condition and gone through 2 operations for that. God has led us to wonderful doctors and specialists through it all. And, I have been able to use my knowledge to help others going through the same thing.

Don and I prayed tht God would give Ian a personality that would outshine his outward imperfections and He answered us with such blessings. Ian has always been a leader and has always been surrounded by good friends. But, most importantly, he loves the Lord. He has a strong sense of right and wrong and is not afraid to stand on his convictions. He's no "angel"...but I can truly say that I trust his judgement in most everything. God has a plan for him, and it is exciting watching it unfold.

So, if you think about it this week, please say a prayer for this mama's boy far away this Christmas season. Pray for health and safety...of course...lots of fun.