Tuesday night my wife, youngest son and I joined a group of our friends and their sons to have a last get-together before all of the boys leave for college. The boys have been friends for many years and the families have spent lots of time together. We had a great time and even talked about the boys moving away and living on their own. We are all excited for our sons and the future that lies before them.

However while driving down Sparkman Street Tuesday night a huge realization appeared right before my eyes. When I read the marquee in front of Hartselle High School announcing the times for students to pick up schedules it really hit home that for the first time in eight years I will not have a student attending the school. Also not only will I not have a student in high school but we will not have a child at home either. For the first time in 22 years it will just be the two of us again. Well not just the two of us, we have two dogs that live with us also. When Jordan our oldest left for college four years ago it was sad but we stayed busy with Jacob moving into a very tough high school schedule and playing sports at the same time.

Even though it is going to be difficult when Jacob leaves next week I know he is where he needs to be to realize the goals he has set for himself. He has looked forward to attending Auburn University for many years and I am happy and proud that this dream is coming true for him. He will be living with his older brother so he will still have someone around to look after him. They are very close as brothers and I am happy that they will be able to share a part of each other’s years at Auburn.

Next Tuesday is going to be a hard day; so if I seem a little unhappy and even shed a few tears I know in my heart Jacob is ready to head off into his future. He leaves knowing his family and friends love, support, encourage, and pray for him. We will miss you and Jake, Josh, Matt, and Ryland but you all are ready to spread your wings and leave the nest. May God continue to bless and keep all of you safe from harm.

Randy Garrison is the president and publisher of the Hartselle Enquirer.