It's so cliche, but it truly does feel like yesterday when my oldest daughter was the only baby around and everyone was completely fascinated with her every move, from giggles and gurgles to the first big steps. Of course, her dad and I were delighted with all she did. As the first child of her generation in our family, though, she was a source of entertainment for all - aunties, uncles, cousins and, naturally, her adoring grandparents. Could that really have been 11 years ago?
Now we are taking new steps of all kinds with her. As her last "elementary" summer winds down, we are gearing up for her to start Middle School. Almost as a symbol of her growing independence, this is the summer she asked to accompany a friend (and her family) on a week-long family trip. She is farther away from us than she has been since birth, eating their favorite family dishes, sleeping under a strange roof, taking part in someone else's traditions.
She was thrilled to be invited and I was (am) delighted for her. Her friend is a very sweet girl - funny, adorable, talented, athletic and, most of all, a nice girl with the same sort of value for friendship my daughter has. They are pictured together above, enjoying themselves as they usually do when they are together. Her family is equally nice and I trust them implicitly, not only with my daughter's safety, but with her happiness as well.
Still, it is an awkward week. I feel incomplete and a little out of my element. I am certainly enjoying increased time with my other two. But I can't help looking over my shoulder from time to time, expecting her to be there. I wait for her to sign into gmail so we can have one of our brief funny "chats" in the middle of the day.
I know this is just a taste of what is coming as she continues to spread her wings. And I am glad she has the confidence and poise to do this. But I would be lying if I didn't admit it is somewhat bittersweet. I would never rush this golden week for her, but I will be happy to see her home Saturday. I will feel my nest is full again, the way it still feels natural to me.
1 comment:
Just got the e-mail announcing your blog. Congratulations! I love the bright color and am full of admiration–didn't take you long to figure out how to get the photos in. (Or maybe Molly showed you.) After two years I still have trouble getting links to work.
As if you didn't have enough to keep you busy!
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