You Know You Grew up in a College Town When . . .

Yesterday, Carter and I picked up Laura Beth from school. We had the usual "How was your day?" conversations. Laura Beth informed us that she had voted for the new president and got to see where the big people voted as well. We talked about who she voted for and how the class did things when they voted. It was very cool. Now, I admit, I have not talked to my children a whole lot about the election process this year and maybe I should have. I just had a feeling it would be a little over there heads, especially Carter. However, I should have done more. We work with college kids who elect a president and other officers. Our college recently inaugurated a new president, and Carter has picked up on more than I realized. He had been very quiet - waiting for his turn to talk, but when Laura Beth said something about the new president, he could not hold it in any longer.

Carter: What do you mean there is going to be a new president? Are the Kappas getting a new president? I don't even know this McCain Kappa kid? Who is he?
(The "Kappas" are what my children call the college kids we work with and the current president is one of my children's favorite people.)

Me: No, the Kappas aren't getting a new president. Mr. Tyler is still president.

Little Man, interrupting me: Is Dr. Wiley not the president anymore? He just started!!! Why are they getting a new one already?
(Dr. Wiley is the new president of the university where Damon works. He was just put into office in the middle of October.)

Laura Beth, disgusted with her brother's lack of political knowledge: No, Dr. Wiley is just president of FHU. This new president will be president of the whole community!!!

Me: The whole country, dear. All the states of America.

Carter: Oh, well, who is president now? I don't know him.

In four years we will go a little further into the presidential election. Until then we are praying for our country.
Tonight, amid all the election stuff, I went out for a monthly dinner with some of the college girls to Dumplings. We try to go once a month just to get away. These girls all hold a special place in my heart. I am getting to the point where I do feel like a mother to these students (a few years ago I would have said kicking and screaming that I was their big sister, but I am resigning to the fact that I am more of a mother figure to most.) However, with these girls, I am just one of the girls. I have seen these girls go through heartache, drama, ups and downs, engagements, marriages and one has even graduated, but still joins the group. We use the time at Dumplings to pray for each other, to encourage each other, and just to be there for each other. It is truly a blessing and I am so thankful for each one of these girls and the unique relationship I have with each of them. Which brings me to the things I am thankful for today . . .

1. The fact that I can make my voice known in my country

2. The fact that I can pray for my country

3. My college girls

4. Friends who make you feel young again

(The lady thought I was just one of the girls as well!!!)