Here We Go

My daughter began her senior year of high school this week.  

My only daughter.  

My only child.

Years ago, I blogged about having one child.  I remember writing about how her graduation would render us empty nesters. That seemed so far away.

IT WASN'T.

I am just beginning to process what it means and how it feels.  Here's what I know so far:

I want to be present every second.  I want to savor this year.

I want to be joyful. Does anyone want to be around a miserable mother all year?  I think not.  

I want to be grateful. There are so many parents who would love to be sitting in my seat.  My happy & healthy daughter leaving home to go to college is not a tragedy.  It is a blessing.  

I want to continue building my marriage. It would be super easy to focus on her to the extreme this year.  I want to plan & look forward to the years ahead with my guy.

I do not want my daughter to feel guilt. She is doing what we prayed for her to do and raised her to do.  To make this year all about my sadness would be a disservice to her.

There is a lot of change on the horizon.  For her and for me.  I can't stop it from happening, but I can choose how I handle it.  

(Also.  Remind me of this next May.)

Here's to a great year.

Comments

[Headless Mom]

I was just thinking about you last week and wondering how old she was now! God moment, there. Also wondering what else you've been up to. So glad to see you in my feed today!

I remember when my girl was a senior. Well, kinda. Her baby brother also started kinder that year so much of it is a blur. What I was trying to say is, yes, it will be full of all the feels but many many of them are happy, excited feels because they are preparing for THEIR journey and we get the best view!

Blessings to you B! Miss you!

[Beachymimi]

Wow. She should still be a baby. What am I saying! So should you! I am so proud of you for looking forward to her life instead of looking back. Here's to Milly's Marvelous Senior Year!

[Jenna]

You're a smart lady and good parenting role model!