I think I need a tissue

I have finally accepted my children are full grown and no longer want to live with me, near me or visit more than necessary.

They have flown the coop, left the nest, took up residence in paradise, found their calling, and are successfully living their lives independent of parental guidance or assistance. They are done with the hustle and bustle, traffic and general population of this city. Even coercion to swim daily in our cement pond in our backyard retreat won't change their minds. Their vacation days are spent traveling the world and experiencing new adventures. I get it. I forgot to do that as a young adult and still haven't left these United States and start my check offs on the bucket list. I must go to them if I want to see their sweet faces.

Yes, this is what we planned for.

Yes, we even encouraged them to go and find themselves and make their own way.

Yes, they are successfully launched and I should be doing that happy dance to be free of their dirty dishes, ransacked rooms and unpredictable mood swings.

I have written about my preparing the child for the road...not the road for the child.

The bedrooms remain unchanged and full of childhood memories, toys, games, puzzles and clothes. Today, I began packing up those toys and beloved  treasures. I wrapped them in tissue, carefully boxed the breakables and wrote little notes and stories behind each of the most beloved items designated as "NEVER GET RID OF" by their owners.

 

The wall papered pre-teen border is coming off, and the overdue cover up of the botched wall "texture" of 1998 is going to be redone in a bright new hue of citrus green and accents in yellow. Baby photos, pictures, even the carpet are being replaced. It is so difficult to make a change but its time.

I spend hours gazing at photos and books and remembering the day and event they made their appearance and reliving it. The girls were the best. Never any trouble and always happy with what they were given and grateful for loving parents and happy home.

Youngest daughter claims to be returning homeward next year and taking the furniture away. Will she take her childhood with her?  Hoping it will be so but having it packed up and ready for the trip will make it easier for the final parting. Number One wants to have her things but regretfully lives in a tiny apartment with no storage. Her things are also boxed up and ready to find their way to her when an empty closet becomes available. (mocking laugh here). For now, I will remain the guardian of all things sentimental and beloved to ensure their safe keeping but who's going to take care of all my own mementos?

Missing you girls more than I can express but I am committed to changing it up for my new launch into mid life . Want your stuff? Please come get it and I will hold on to you tighter than you could ever imagine, but I am willing to let you go again to continue your pursuit of happily ever after.

Dang! I think I need a tissue!  Must be the paint fumes blurring my vision!