Move-in Day

Who else dreads move-in day? 

I know. I shouldn't dread it. It's an exciting day for my son. It's been a long summer away from his friends. It's a time when he goes back to college and learns new things, becomes more independent, and takes one step closer to achieving his dreams.  

But for moms, at least this mom, it's not as exciting. For moms, it's not the most favorite day of the year. Sure, we love to see them grow and learn and make their way in this world. That's what we raise them to do, right? Sure. Of course.

But not so fast. 

Can't we have just one more year with him home with us? Ok, so that’s not realistic, so one more day maybe? I guess not.

1. The car is already 90% packed.
2. His roommates are expecting him.
3. Shake Shack is calling his name.
4. He’s already said his goodbyes.

Why can’t he just get another outfit from the car, let his roommate know he’ll be there Wednesday, and eat at his favorite restaurant at home instead?

Because that’s not how it works.

When I wake up tomorrow morning we will drive 3 1/2 hours to his college. His sister and I will follow him in our car and I’ll be sad, wishing I was driving with him, but he will have it packed so tightly that there’s no room for me. He’ll say he’s sorry but he’ll actually be happy because he can listen to whatever music he wants to and he won’t have to hear me jabber the whole 3 plus hours.

We will move him in, take too many trips back to the car because he has too many boxes, packed with too much stuff, and way too many shoes for one boy to bring to college.

1. We’ll make sure he’s settled.
2. We’ll cry.
3. We’ll say goodbye.
4. We’ll leave.
5. He’ll stay.

Because that’s how it works.

I don’t make the rules. I just follow them. I’ve done this with three other children. And no, it doesn’t get easier. And every time I drive away, I cry. And when we’re home and they’re the ones who drive away, I cry. Friends, I don’t like this. I don’t want to say goodbye. I want them to live with me forever and always. But they can’t. And they won’t. And that’s OK.

1. That’s normal.
2. That’s healthy.
3. That’s life.

He’ll be ok. I’ll be ok. As long as he’s happy the tears stop and the smiles start. He loves school and he can’t wait to get back there. And I’m ok with that. He’s where he belongs. He’s ready. So I will close my eyes tonight and get a good nights sleep. We have a big day tomorrow! My baby’s going back home. And we’re both going to live happily ever after, after. After move-in day.

The Lord will watch over your coming

 and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:8