Elizabeth - thank you so much for your update!
It is often in reading the updates that those trying to make decisions on how to move forward can better see which direction to take for their own families. I loved hearing about the growth in each of your dc.
Your dd sounds like she is soaring in those mature, growing up years of upper middle school heading towards high school! My ds enjoyed that maturing process of becoming a young man and taking on more responsibility through the years as well. I thought I'd have a harder time with him taking on that independence, but it turns out that instead of us feeling further apart, we feel closer because the meeting time we have together for high school (which lasts around an hour) is very special to us. He likes to take the lead more, show me what he has accomplished, have me help fine tune things, and then be on his way again to work at his own pace in the order he likes.
It sounds like you are seeing that with your dd as well - praise God!
Your ds sounds like he is loving your guidance in CTC as you partner with him to give him the skills for successfully taking on some independence. I have found the same to be true for my ds who just completed CTC and began RTR half-speed. He needed time to grow, time with me, discussions with me, and that time together for the 2 of us has been very special. I gave that to my older ds years ago, and I am glad to give it again to my middle ds now. It is sometimes tougher to go back to those younger years with little ones like my youngest, Emmett, as it always seems new and exciting to me to do the new guides with my oldest. However, I gave my oldest a firm foundation from the start, and he is now strong and ready to build on it more independently. My little one - he needs me now, and he deserves me just like my other 2 dc had me early on. And the funny is... returning to the younger guides is actually a breath of fresh air. It is always a surprise to me, as I've taught those guides multiple times at this point. The delight of a small child - not much brings that special kind of joy to a home! I will be sad to not return to LHTH and LHFHG, as my youngest is now in Beyond. Grandchildren?
I would be a substitute granny teacher in a heartbeat.
Anyway, I absolutely loved reading your update, I am so thankful you shared your journey here to inspire others, and I am so glad you have found your groove! Your post here will certainly provide inspiration for many other moms!
God bless!
In Christ,
Julie