I met Joshua many years ago when his family made a trip to Michigan to present their Ministry to our Church.  What a small world that years later when he was all grown up that we would meet again in Florida.

I came to this park for years. Loving the many small lakes it is built around. Florida in all its glory.

Lakes Park is in Fort Myers, Florida. My winter home. Sometimes there are alligators sunning themselves on the rocks. I am getting used to them.

Can you believe these pictures were taken right in the smack dab of winter. Yes, this is Florida.

Joshua made this afternoon very fun. Actually, I think it was having his wonderful mother there too. This is her first of 6 children to leave the nest. I know she is excited for him–just not excited to see him go all the way to California to go to school.

I know how she feels and I know she will survive. We all do somehow. They grow up and their lives continue. These photographs hold a place in time. A memory. A time. His last year at home.

Joshua, cherish these last full times with your family. It won’t ever be the same. Childhood slips away, but those who helped you grow and held you close will always be the same in their love for you.

Thank you for allowing me to capture this day. My heart felt thoughts and prayers go to California with you as you train to serve the Lord with all your heart.