Memories

Friday is finally here! As long as I can remember I have always looked forward to Fridays. Who doesn't? I am especially looking forward to this weekend. Tomorrow Mike and I are going to make the short trip to Nashville for the day. I am going to a shower for a friend/sister of mine and he is going to spend the afternoon in the library. I think I am looking forward to the trip more than he is.

However, this has brought alot of memories back to me. I am amazed as I think about the number of people in my life that have been significant and still hold such special places in my heart. Today, I want to write in particular about the Osburns. After my freshman year in college, I decided to pursue a youth internship. That summer I ended up in Atlanta, GA at the Campus Church of Christ. It was an incredible summer. I had the joy of working with a childhood friend and two new friends and vetern youth ministers, Ken and Donna Ellis. Before I go any farther, I have to say that they are great ministers and have really impacted alot of lives. I learned so much that summer and could share many stories. While all of these relationships were special, the family I lived gave me and showed me something I really needed that summer.

The Osburns loved spending time together as well as to take others in their home. The summer I was with them their family (James, Jayne, Julia, and Jayme) was there as well as Freddy, their foster son, and the two female interns. This family laughed together, watched movies together, talked about God together. James and Jayne were not afraid to laugh and have a good time with their kids. They were involved in their lives, but they also disciplined them as well. They became confidants for me during a difficult time and continued to be there for me during the next two years. Their house was the frequent gathering place for the teenagers and they didn't mind. They have always considered me their third daughter and I easily consider them my second family. Those are my sisters and I care deeply for them. Several years later, it was interesting that Julia began her freshman year at Lipscomb as I finished my senior year. I have made special trips just to spend the weekend. I know they have open arms.

I am so happy for Julia as she prepares for marriage, but it is so difficult not to think of her as still being a junior in high school. My dream has always been to get to host an intern and show them the love that I received from this family. My heart is so excited to spend the evening with Jayne, Jayme, Julia, and David. I long for Mike to know them better so he can understand the connection we share.

Our lives change, but my memories of that summer will forever be engrained on my heart.