It happened today. I've known for six weeks that she was going. I encouraged her to go. I even helped organise her documents, etc. I told her how much she would enjoy it. I said how pleased I was that she had this opportunity. I truly wanted her to go.So why do I miss her so much already?
It's two years since she left home to share a house with a girlfriend. So I haven't been cooking her meals, doing her washing, or even cleaning up after her. I haven't had daily contact with her, and when she did visit or ring, it was usually brief as she was rushing off somewhere else. I haven't shared in all the everyday happenings of her life for some time.
So why do I feel so empty tonight?
It's like another chapter of my life has ended, but I look forward to a new phase in our relationship. She will be more independent, more capable, and more fulfilled when I see her again. And she will be 23! She has looked forward to this chance for a long time.
So, I really am happy for you, Sara, my darling daughter.
Have a wonderful time playing hockey in The Netherlands. Learn everything you can, train hard and play enthusiastically (as you always do). Make new friends, see new places, experience new cultures. God bless you and keep you safe until you return home in June next year.
So, I really am happy for you, Sara, my darling daughter.
Have a wonderful time playing hockey in The Netherlands. Learn everything you can, train hard and play enthusiastically (as you always do). Make new friends, see new places, experience new cultures. God bless you and keep you safe until you return home in June next year.
It is so hard to see them go out on their own, isn't it? My son is 28 and moved to a place 5 hours away about six years ago. I used to worry a lot about him, but he seems to have done just fine on his own. I am sure your daughter will, too.
ReplyDeleteI still have a hard time not crying when my married daughters leave after a visit. I do so want to hold them and keep them safe and happy forever.
ReplyDeleteMy son is still little so I don't even like to think about it. I can't wait for school to end because I miss him! What a great opportunity your daughter has. How exciting! Good for her. I'm sure she will miss you too!
ReplyDeletewell, a part of us has gone, that is why we are so empty....I grieve every time my daughter goes away on a school camp. You can always jump on a plane and go visit! what an opportunity....and she can always start a blog :)
ReplyDeleteHmmm empty nest syndrome - as much as I say I can't wait for the kids to leave (and that won't happen for years) I'm sure I shall be a blubbering mess when they finally go. What a wonderful opportunity for Sara. We are all thinking of you my dear - cheer up - imagine the postcards and emails you will be getting. The world isn't really so big a place after all.
ReplyDeleteGood Luck to your girl ~ May all her dreams come true! This post has hit a chord with me. I still fight back tears when I talk to my Mum on the phone so far away in Darwin. I miss her terribly. Also when my 13 year old was away for 16 days I missed him terribly (it really was an ache). So I suppose it doesn't matter how old they are, what they're doing, or where they are ~ a mother does not stop thinking about her child...(((HUGS)))
ReplyDeleteYou are quite right, Kali. Michelle spent 13 years overseas and Tanya was overseas for 7 years. Then when she finally came home she went off to university in Townsville for 5 years and is still working up there. During all those years away, I never stopped thinking, caring and worrying(just a little) about them. I was pleased that they were doing what they wanted to do, but I stilled miss them. But, they have to live their lives, not mine.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post. It made me cry. How fortunate and blessed your daughter is, to have such a communicative and loving mother.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sueeeus. Our whole family is happy that she has this opportunity to play hockey over there, but we do miss her presence. Her sisters (shellsandbeans and The Purple Giraffe)miss her but they can relate to this experience because of the long periods they spent overseas. Her brother admits that he misses her, too.
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