It amazes me how much joy you can get from the small things in life. I drove six hours today to spend two hours with my youngest daughter. I LOVED seeing her smile, hear her gush over the wind turbines, talk about Wisconsin in that I love it – even if I don’t live here tone. It was great to hear about her week, her life, her accomplishments. It was wonderful to see the interaction between Stephanie and Vicki, hear the affection between them, and be a part of their converstaion. It makes me miss my oldest daughter and wish I would have those moments with her too.
They have been gone now for six months for Virginia and ten months for Stephanie. We helped Virginia move down in February so I have gotten to see Stephanie three times in the last ten and Virginia not at all. I miss them. Don’t get me wrong. I miss them, seeing them, giving hugs and backrubs, talking to them about their day… I miss all of that. I miss listening to Ken and the girls arguing about whatever on a Sunday when they are all lounging around the house. All these little things I miss… but I don’t want them to move home.
I’m so proud of them for all they have accomplished. It takes a lot to move a half a country away from everything you are familiar with and make a new life for yourself. They have done this. They are still getting their footing but they are working on building their foundations from the foundation Ken and I gave them. I know soon Vicki will be joining their ranks in moving away from home and building her own life.
Their accomplishments – no matter how big or small – amaze me and fill me with a joy. This is what we were supposed to do – raise them to go out in the world and make their own way and chase their own dreams.
It may be mushy and sentimental but I love my girls. I’m very proud of all my girls.
Aw, written as only a mommy could write!
But that empty nest syndrome is for the birds! (Er…pun unintended!) Oh sure, I know the heartache that comes with kids growing up and out – and moving away (my son moved to OK City when he was 18!), but it's nothing compared to the deep breath of freedom one feels once the heartache goes away. Just wait…it'll come. And when it does, PARTY!!!
Trust me – I am quite happy that 2/3 of my kids are out of my house. I enjoyed the few months Ken and I had alone. I'm looking forward to the last one getting a job and being out of the house too…
There are just moments when I get all mushy and sentimental…