Today, I used technology, Skype, to speak with Becky. It was helpful to getting things started and the boxes packed for college. There is still a lot to due, but at least we started. After all she moves out Aug 15th. Plus, to make matters tougher, she will only be home for 11 days before the move.
As I packed the boxes and showed her things, I was able to send several items to good will. This packing is different and unique then the packing that was done to move to seminary. by the end of the packing we started just throwing things in the box ready to move. There was no organization, no plan, just pack and move along. There were also strong emotions.
This packing is so much smoother, even with the distance. We have accepted and embraced our new journey, and the messy boxes were thrown in an attic, waiting for the next move. At least we were well aware that this move was temporary. So now begins the task of making this next move even easier. Emotions are still high, but they are more of excitement, joy, nervousness and memories of years gone by.
We have learned from many here on campus who have moved in and out. Size and weight of boxes makes for a much easier move. But that also means deciding, what to keep and what not to. This time, we are going room by room, Becky’s being first.
We started with easy items, then moved to decorations so to speak. We had four piles; garbage, give aways, college, next home. We have managed to pack two boxes for the next home and at least six boxes for college. We were able to take 1 large black bag full of giveaways and half of a box, along with 1 large bag of trash. It’s amazing how much one can gather. Where did we get it, why did we get, and why did we keep it, runs through our minds.
So many items brought tears in the eyelids, while others brought smiles. I fear my aunt and uncle will be scared off by the amount of boxes she maybe bringing to school. Thank goodness we will have two cars! I would hate to pull in with a U-haul. Good news is the plan is to be at school for at least four years, so we felt it was best to send all her clothes with her as well as some comforts from home. I’m thinking she will just be visiting us from this point forward.
With summer jobs, possible internships, it’s unknown where she will be next summer. She may be able to come help us move. She may meet us in our new location. The journey is unknown.
It’s hard to believe that my job is taking on more the role as the advisor, no longer the care taker. My role changed almost over night. I remember thinking when she cried as a baby that the time would never end. Alas, now I wonder where did that time go?
This is going to be a strange school year for me. As Doug returns to class, so will Becky just not here. I no longer have to worry about school closings, band meetings, parent nights or buying school supplies. How weird will that be? I will no longer see her play in the marching band, or track. Now I will only hear about it when it’s over.
But I’m ready for this. Of course I’m sure I will cry when I say good -bye. Anyone who knows me, knows that’s how it goes. Yet I’m so excited for Becky to start her new life and wish only the best for her. She will succeed,if she puts her mind to it. I will start my new chapter, with the church and the new plans God has in store for all of us. It won’t be easy, but it will be the way it should be. I am not the first mom to go through this, and I will not be the last.
Jeremiah 29:11New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
I love this piece.