Finding Value In Family Relationships

**In one week, our family's downsized.** College Graduate moved to the East Coast and College Boy returned to the university. That leaves the High Schooler and Junior, the middle school boy. "*Our fun little family of four"* I call the rest of us.

**There's a lot I like about a smaller family**. We can go places with minimal cost. We can eat out every once in a while instead of almost-never. There's less laundry, less arguing, and more quiet spaces in the house.

Today we decided to go hiking. In just a few minutes, we packed a less-than-army-size lunch and were off. A fun and spontaneous family of four.

**Family outings for six are a major undertaking**. Rarely does everyone agree. There's usually **someone arguing, whining or complaining.** Packing a lunch is a major feat and finding something cheap to feed everyone is rare.

***Today was quick, easy and fun*.**

When we got home, **High School Boy said, "*Thanks for today, Mom*,"** then left for his girlfriend's house.

**Junior said**, "*Can I have a friend over? ****I get tired of being by myself.*" **

**College Grad** texted, "**I'm homesick**."

And now, **I'm in tears**.The yucky kind that makes your dog look at you with those "*What the heck are you doing?" *eyes.

Read more [here](http://tentotwenty.com/finding-value-family-relationships/).