As a single mom, life is always a balancing act, and this summer, that balance shifted in a way I hadn't quite expected. My youngest daughter decided she wanted to go to sleepaway camp for the first time, while my older one preferred to stay home, leaving me with a whirlwind of emotions and a new chapter in our lives.
When my youngest first mentioned wanting to go to camp, I was hit with a mix of excitement and nerves. The idea of her gaining independence, making new friends, and exploring “her world” was thrilling. But the thought of her being away from me and our family for the entire summer was daunting.
She, on the other hand, was ecstatic. Her excitement was contagious, and despite my worries, I couldn’t help but be happy for her.
Packing for camp was an adventure in itself. We went through the list of never-ending essentials and spent hours deciding what she would take or not. As we packed, she chatted endlessly about the activities she was looking forward to; her enthusiasm was infectious, and I found myself getting caught up in her excitement.
The day she left for camp was bittersweet. My daughter kissed me goodbye with a big smile, and then she was gone and ready to dive into her new adventure. We hugged tightly, and I whispered words of encouragement, telling her how proud I was of her and how much fun she was going to have.
The house feels emptier without her chatter, and I remind myself that this is a wonderful opportunity for her to learn and grow, but still, it doesn’t make the separation any easier.
I have adjusted to the new normal while still counting the days until she returns. She’s having a blast, learning new skills, and making new friends that will quite possibly be in her life forever. She’s embracing every moment.
I also realize that by allowing her this experience, I am helping her become a strong, confident young woman. It’s a reminder that as much as I want to hold on to my “baby”, I also need to let her spread her wings and fly.
Looking ahead, I know that time will continue to move quickly. My girls will grow up and venture out into the world, but I know that the bond we share will remain strong.
This summer is a beautiful reminder that while it’s hard to let go, it’s also essential for their growth, and in the end I know we will all come out stronger and closer than before.
Comments