Well, we’re back from Montana, with my oldest child safely dropped off with all his worldly belongings, including a new comforter, a few snacks, a ukelele, and a football he decided to take at the last second.
And you know what? It wasn’t so bad — I wasn’t the emotional wreck I thought I’d be.
I think talking about his leaving, musing about it, and writing about it really helped me get a lot of the sadness out. By the time I got up there (and especially after I saw all of his dorm mates dropping their stuff off and immediately taking off toward the Clark River with inner tubes), I was so excited and happy for him. I just couldn’t wait to let him get started, so Superman and I could hear about all the new adventures he’s going to have!
I think it also helped that we brought the younger kids along. They were a lot of fun, and they kept reminding me that my job as a mom isn’t over — I’ve got another several years of all their craziness! The drive home felt like we were starting a new phase, but almost like we rewound the clock about three years — now Rene is my “oldest” at home, and she’s the age Ricky was three years ago, so I get to redo sophomore, junior and senior year.
I’ll post a little more about it — plus more photos of Montana — in the next few days. For now, it’s back to work, back to registering the younger kids for junior high and high school, and on to Phase II!
Congrats, Mama! I just can’t even imagine. My oldest started Kindergarten yesterday and my baby started preschool today. My husband was almost more emotional that I was, although we both didn’t cry. He was saying he didn’t realize how sad it would be! I need to post their photos.
I can’t even imagine them going to college!
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I am so glad it wasn’t as bad as you thought! I think it was great that the other kids got to go too, I am sure that did help them as well! Onward and, well…onward, right!? =)
A new phase in life for all of you! I remember those first few weeks away, and it was both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially heading off to my first class, an 8am French course. Interestingly, I am still friends today with two people that I met that morning over 25 years ago! Oh what a fantastic adventure your son has embarked upon!
Wow good for you. I was a hot mess. I’m so proud of you!
Thanks, all!
Kristi — Some of that feeling is the same — that feeling that they’re passing through time so quickly, and they’ve moved OUT of a phase you were still really enjoying! In your case, your little girl leaving the preschool days and becoming a full-on “grader.” Congrats to her! (That’s a super-fun phase also!) : )
Debi — That’s right: onward and onward!
Steve — That’s terrific that you’re still friends with kids you met in those first few weeks. I’m still friends with my first roommate, too. (And, in a weird twist of fate, she lives about 11 minutes away from where Ricky is right now! She’s already invited him over to do laundry when he needs to! Life is weird.) Anyway, those first weeks are truly exciting, and I’m excited for him to spread his wings there.
Kwana — I was thinking of you for sure! Dropping off TWINS (and your only children) would have been much more difficult, I’m sure. (I’ll tweet you!)