Yesterday we moved E. back to college. We have been making preparations all summer for her Senior year. She has lived in the dorms the past three years, but this year she is living in an apartment. For her birthday this summer, she got measuring spoons, an apron (from her sister) a Rachael Ray 20 minute meal cookbook, etc. Between Mom and I, we have gone through our kitchens, browsed yard sales and Target stores and conferred on what we had collected and what she would need. This work was left up to us seasoned homemakers as E. has been pretty clueless as to what she would need to take.
The move went relatively smooth. We took sisters along to unload and unpack. There is only one set of stairs to navigate, so the move didn't beat us up too badly. Our van was loaded as well as E's car.
I had to pack her some of our own chicken eggs--by the way, we got 5 today!
This place could use some pictures and drapes and "what nots" on the tables. I keep telling E. that she has not brought enough "what nots." (she hates "what nots") Her two other roomies moved in today, so I'm sure there will be decor galore before long.
I can't help but think back taking E. to school her freshman year. I remember driving home and no one talked. I wondered if she would come home to visit (she did) and if she would call (she would) and how we would feel "normal" with one of us gone. I know it's pretty dorky, but we're pretty much together a lot. We like being together. We live in the country, as far as country goes anymore, and we entertain each other. You know...sisters love, sisters fight, sisters scream, sisters laugh
sisters toast "no more sharing their bathroom."
All in all it was a good day, not painful at all. E. is excited about getting back and seeing her friends. Her boyfriend lives down the street. Matt Nathanson is playing a free concert this weekend. Her first class of the day isn't until 12:30 pm. When she's so enthusiastic about her school year, well, I have to be too. So, I re-potted a houseplant today sat it back on her dresser. I fix dinner and wonder if she's eating junk. Should I take the extra leaf out of the table?
Yeah, she's moving on and it's always fun to watch our children meeting their milestones. I've changed a little too since that freshman year. I don't worry quite as much. Our relationship has become one that I truly enjoy. In her teen years, she used to hate for me to look over her shoulder and see her facebook, now she begs me to get my own--she calls me to tell me to get on her facebook and see her latest pictures. And I text now, yes I do! I didn't think I ever would, but I do like it and it's another way to keep in touch.
So last night when I was lying in bed trying to stay awake to finish a chapter in my book, I wondered how things were going with her. And then I remembered how relaxed she looked as we said our good-byes and took a final picture of her in front of her new digs, and I knew that she'd be fine.
And then I texted her good-night.
XO
Mom