This picture of Daughter was taken last summer during a spell where Son was off at This or That Camp for an extended period of time. We were practicing doing different things to take our mind off the fact that we missed him.
This week we find ourselves doing sort of the same thing, looking to each other to figure out our New Normal now that Son is happily and safely off at college.
He really couldn't be happier. And we are all thrilled for him.
We, on the other hand, had a very rough day on Saturday. It's a very long story that involves a tearful goodbye with my parents first thing; a mixed bag of emotions on the ride to Charlottesville (he was exuberant, I was a nervous wreck, Daughter didn't know what to do); a hasty drop off and departure (because there really was no need to linger); and one of the worst drives in the history of all my years of driving.
Daughter started crying as soon as she said her goodbyes, and we both were wiping tears and sobbing all the way from Charlottesville to Richmond, where we met my sister for dinner.
Also, when we got to Richmond, I became physically ill. Yep. Ill. The stress of the day, the lengthy build-up of emotions, an overload of caffeine that morning (that included three cups of coffee and 1.5 energy drinks), plus the hour of driving and crying all swirled together to cause me to get sick.
After a nap and some food later that evening I was fine.
But when we arrived home officially, the tears flowed again.
Son's doing great. Daughter is already taking over his bathroom and some of his space upstairs.
Eventually we'll adjust to this new norm. At least I know Daughter will.
For me, it's going to take a little longer.
Dropping him off was one of the hardest things I've had to do thus far. And, in two short years, it will be Daughter's turn.
If I am still blogging in two years, I predict my last blog post will be Drop Off Day for Daughter. That will be the day they finally haul me off in the padded wagon. For good.
I hope everyone else's weekend was better than mine.
I need another vacation. And possibly some prescription medication.
Or something.
8 comments:
Oh my gosh - you poor thing! I remember dropping Matt off at UVa. We didn't linger either (although I wanted to). He just looked so happy and excited. It made me feel good.
This is the circle of life. But I know how heart-wrenching it feels. Oh, I wish I could somehow help.
Not sure if I should send hugs or chocolate. Hang in there, soon it will feel normal. Betsy
I'm glad he is on his new turf and look forward to hearing about his new experiences.
You, on the other hand, need to find a new path. One for good health, good looks, and a happy mind. Thinking makes it so. Think new and happy. It works for me.
Aw, mama!! I know CB Son is going to LOVE it there as much as you did! You're doing a great job with your kiddos and they are well prepared to leave the nest. Be kind to yourself as you settle into your new normal!
I prescribe wine and chocolate for the transition to New Normal...(my new normal without seeing my grandchildren is pretty rocky, I must admit; and I miss my daughter-in-law and son something fierce.) Anyway, as much as we all feel for you, nobody but you will know day-to-day how to get used to the change. I send sympathies as well to your family who are obviously extremely close to Sam as well. Sam will be able to grow and expand and define himself while he is out in the world, so it is a great thing. I just remember how challenging it seemed to be when he had that thorassic surgery and the long recuperation he (and you) endured...starting from there and the journey to his move to college, things have turned out beautifully. Celebrate with wine for me ( I can't drink alcohol without bladder infection fairy showing up ) and nurture with some good ol' dark chocolate (and maybe some great books, movies, boat rides, other diversions ? ) Hugs from CA..
LLC
Writing about chocolate, wine and emotions has me using the term "as well" twice in one sentence. Take no notice, carry on.
LLC
Oh you poor dear. Try pretending he has just gone for the weekend, or to one of his camps or something, and in the meantime, I'm with LLC on the wine and chocolate. Just remember he knows where home is ...and the washing machine. He'll be back.
i promise you he will be home in a few weeks for thanksgiving (or maybe before) with a load of laundry and you'll wonder how you missed him!
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