For a while I have been anticipating the day the exodus would begin. My oldest is in China, but she will be home soon and we are eager to have her back in the nest as she prepares for her next adventure.
But today #2 moves out.
We've been singing the Billy Joel song around here "I'm moving out". It makes all of us smile as we are making plans and assembling items. It is such an exciting time to get your first apartment. She has a wonderful roommate that seems like a perfect fit. We are very proud of her choices and her desire to "get out there and do this!"
But at the end of the day, I am still just a mom.
I really enjoy these kids. I will miss her deeply although she will be only 3 minutes away in an apartment and I will be working with her during the week at our church.
This is what we sign up for as moms. All the bittersweet moments of teaching them to fly and then having to let them actually do it. I am thankful that Jesus has taught me to grieve over the past several years through my mother's Alzheimers.
Sadness is not our enemy. In fact, sadness is a sweet friend that will take us by the hand and wrap us up in warm reflective places and care for us.
Life is full of these moments. It seems as you get older, joy and sorrow are often holding hands and appear to be friends. I did not know that when I was young.
So we will pack the trailer up today and I personally will consecrate her new space with anointing oil and ask God to protect them both as they start their new adventure.
And I will trust God. Just like I've been trusting Him to take care of us all along.
She will do well. I have no doubt.
She is ready and I am almost there.
So tonight we will toast to "Another Homeschool Success Story" as we move in the last piece of furniture. Tomorrow she will be back at our house getting all the things she forgot.
