Ug. I am dreading the end of this vacation when we head back home. Like gut-wrenching, doubled over, "I think I might puke," dreading heading home.
Only five more mornings to share "coffee o'clock" with my beloved by the seashore.
My oldest daughter, Abby, is heading to college for the first time four days after we get home.
As the day approaches for my daughter to head off to college, I am caught in a whirlwind of emotions. It's a strange mix of excitement and dread, pride and sadness. On the one hand, I'm thrilled about the adventure she's about to embark on, but on the other, I can't help but feel a deep sense of loss as she leaves home.
Let's start with the excitement. Watching my daughter prepare for college and adult life has been a proud moment as a parent. She's worked hard to get here and is more than ready to spread her wings and explore a new world. The opportunities ahead for her are endless—new friends, new experiences, and the chance to grow into the person she's meant to be. I'm excited to see her become more independent and navigate this new chapter of her life with confidence and curiosity. The thought of her making lifelong memories, discovering her passions, and genuinely finding herself fills me with joy.
There's also the knowledge that college is a time for her to learn academically and about life. She'll gain new perspectives, meet people from all walks of life, and start to build the foundation for her future. It's a thrilling time, and I'm excited to see how she'll grow and change during these next few years.
I'm looking forward to the stories she'll bring home, the new things she'll teach me, and the person she'll become.
But then there's the flip side—the dread. The house is going to feel so empty without her here. I've grown used to the daily interactions, conversations, laughter, and little moments that make up our days. The thought of not having those anymore is hard to bear. I know I'll miss her presence more than I can express.
Of course, with her being far from home, there's a natural worry about her well-being. As a parent, it's tough to let go and trust that she'll be okay alone. I worry about the challenges she'll face, the new environment she's stepping into, and the distance from her support system. The fear of the unknown is real, and I can't shake it.
This transition also marks the end of an era, signaling that my little girl is growing up and becoming independent. Knowing that she's moving on to a new chapter while I'm adjusting to a new normal is bittersweet. Our daily routines will change, and the family dynamics will shift, and I'm not sure I'm ready for that change.
Then there's the nostalgia that hits me when I think about the childhood years we've shared. Letting go of those memories of when Abby was younger and more dependent on me is complicated. It's a reminder that time is moving forward; with it, my daughter is moving on to this next stage of life.
So here I am, standing at the crossroads of excitement and dread. It's a complicated mix of emotions, but I know it's all part of the journey. As Abby heads off to college, I'm excited about the incredible experiences she'll have. Still, I'll also be missing her every step of the way. This bittersweet moment is one that many parents face, and while it's not easy, it's a necessary part of watching our children grow up and find their own path in the world.
Fly high, baby girl. I'm so proud of you.
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