As I've prepared for her to fly away from our nest on Monday, I've been doing a lot of thinking about the hard choices we make at poignant times in our lives to better ourselves and our situations, and the impact those choices have on the layers of our lives.It isn't easy to leave behind everything you know to pursue a dream. Nicole's heart is breaking as she says good-bye to good friends, co-workers, family, and the landscapes that have been her home since birth. But she is at a point of no return, where to stay behind would come at the cost of opportunity. And though I will miss her, terribly, I am so proud that she has made the tough choice to pursue those chances that will broaden her horizons.
And so I ask you, my moxie fab friends, to help me send Nicole along on her way with one of my favorite poems by one of my favorite poets--and to think about the tough choices you and your family members have made along the way as well.
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Open Road from rhubarb79Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
A Fork in the Road from shotbyjaneWhat "roads less traveled by" have made the difference in your life? What advice do you have for Nicole as she embarks on her grand adventure? What advice do you have for me as I learn to live without her joyful presence in my daily life? What has inspired you most today? Leave me a comment by midnight MDT on Sunday, August 29 answering any or all of these questions and I'll send one lucky winner the entire Pack Your Bags collection from Little Yellow Bicycle.
Celebrating roads less traveled,
~Cath
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166 comments:
Well, I didn't have hard "geographical" decisions to make, the longest I went away from my familly is 6 months for an internship... But I did make a difficult career decision when I finished my computer science thesis and decided to become a software programmer instead of keeping doing research...
Nicole, you'll have a great time and even if things don't go according to plan, they will turn out fine! Cath, don't worry if you don't hear from her as often as you'd like during the first six months or so - she'll be busy making friends and possibly also studying :)
ugh - typos...
My advice to Nicole is to always take the road less traveled. You may find that it's a dead end, but just think of all the wonderful experiences you'll gain from the journey. Live a life of no regrets. Remember, you can always go home. (right Mom?)
7 years ago, I quit a solid job, got married, bought a house, and started grad school all at once. It was hard being broke, but an amazing experience! And now I have a job (and a hubby and a house) that I love :) Go Nicole!!
Ah, what a beautiful poem. I wish I had some sage words of advice, but being the mother of a 17 year old and a 4 year old, we have not had to make those decisions (yet). I know only from reading here that you have obviously done a great job of giving her the proverbial "roots and wings". It is also obvious that you are tremendously proud of Nichole and perhaps that pride in her will offset your feelings of loss.
I salute you both- strong, corageous women!
Congrats Nicole on your new life adventure. It should be very exciting and there are many new places and things to do and see in TO....I live only about an hr. away so I know this part of the world well. I know your mom will miss you so much but she can send you off knowing that she gave you everything you need to be a success in life. Good luck and safe travels.
For Nicole- it'll get easier. You're not leaving friends behind because you WILL be back to visit and it's amazing how easily you'll pick up again with them. I went 1/2 way across the country, sight-unseen for grad school. I made lots of new friends and in no way lost the ones I had that mattered. It provided me with such a great feeling of independence and while I missed everyone, it was an experience that wasn't to be missed. Mom, I don't have any great advice for you because I haven't been there. All I can say is hang in there- you've raised a strong, intelligent, young woman and that's a wonderful thing! Just because she's moving physically away, she'll still be there with you.
Many follow a path but to blaze a trail is unique. Blaze a trail....
Ha I am feeling philosophical this morning! Good luck with both your journeys.
My husband and I became empty nesters within the same year that my sister was killed in a car accident and my mother unexpectedly passed away. Sort of put my last child moving out into perspective. I missed my children, but they were not gone from my forever. You will miss her, but she is only a phone call or trip away.
you've given her wings, now, enjoy watching her soar:)
Nicole- Good luck with Grad school! Sometimes when we step away from the things we know we find pieces of ourselves we never knew were there. So explore yourself as well as your surrounding.
Best Wishes to you and to Nicole! Though the price tag was high, I never regret going to graduate school. It has been a blessing to have that MA on my resume, and has led me to a career that I love. You have so many cheerleaders here if you ever need an encouraging word...and your Mom is obviously your biggest fan! Good luck!
Wow! I am inspired by you, a mom who is strong and who has a beautiful daughter. I hope one day to have such a wonderful 'problem'. My beautiful daughter wanting to further her education. And, I hope that I can be strong and gracious as she goes away from me. Good luck to you both. :)
Good luck to Nicole in your journey away from home. When I went to college in Miami (from NJ)my parents dropped me off as I watched from the window.That was a sad moment but later that day I found a note that said "Enjoy yourself!" and that picked me up.
Hey...welcome to Ontario, Canada Nicole...it's a wonderful place to call home! There's no better time in your life than NOW to take these kinds of chances. Good for you! Mom and dad are just a text or video phone call away...technology, gotta love it! I'm so thankful I did so much travelling when I had finished university.
Beautiful post today Cathy...thanks for the peaceful moment in what will soon be a very hectic day.
What advice do you have for Nicole as she embarks on her grand adventure? -- Follow your heart as much as possible. You'll never regret it...
What advice do you have for me as I learn to live without her joyful presence in my daily life? -- Remember the amazing woman you raised her to be and know that she will be just fine! Also, scrap pictures of her all the time and it'll make you miss her less. ;)
What has inspired you most today? -- My youngest daughter has inspired me most today. She started Kindergarten yesterday and she's having the time of her life! It was a little scary at first but she handled it like a pro. It reminded me that there are things in life that I'm scraed to do and instead of standing behind that fear, I should try new things and have some fun. :)
Thanks for the chance at some goodies!! And for an amazing post...
- April W
For it was to decide to become a stay at home mother. Although how it came about was not what I expected and its not agreed upon w/all our family it is something that I feel so blessed that I am able to do. As you see w/your daughter time flies and they grow and I feel so blessed to watch my children grow and there is NOTHING more amazing and beautiful then this for me. So for me my advice is follow your heart & reach for your goals because in the long run it might be a hard but the rewards will be more then you ever expected.
Take that road that is less traveled most definitely! reminds me of the LeeAnne Womack song "I hope you dance" and I did a scrapbook page for my daughter with this song - My advice just do it!
Congrats to Nichole! :)
Enjoy the adventure Nicole and be sure to keep your foundation solid. Be sure to eat, sleep, breathe and keep balanced.
Cath she is in your heart, and what better way to remind her she is loved than to use your feelings to create beautiful cards for her.
I am at the point of deciding what road I am to take now. I am having to be patient, as I have no answers. So I simply try to enjoy each day.
Hugs
Tanya
Cath,
First words for you. You have been the guide thus far in getting your beautiful daughter to this crossroads. You have given her the roadmap and compass she will need as she journeys on alone. This is your reward--a daughter who seeks new directions and new paths and who has the courage to press on.
Nicole, this will not be the last of the directions you will choose in your life. Always choose the paths which are true to your family, your world, and yourself. Be proud of yourself for what you are about to begin and for all of the accomplishments behind you and in front of you! Go--you can do this.
I don't have some incredible impressive advice, but I do want to wish your daughter the best of luck on her adventure! I guess I would say to always be true to yourself! Also, believe in the impossible! Beautiful inspiring photos in the post today!
Congrats Nicole on such an amazing opportunity! The leaving is the hardest part. The next months will be full of adventure for you - soak it all in :)
Cath, I'm not *quite* there yet, so I have no advice, but I just may be coming to you in 5 years when this starts happening to me!! It's so true about technology and the ability to stay connected so easily. I can't imagine living 100 years ago and sending someone I loved across the ocean to a new world and a new life. Keep the lines always open and grab conversation whenever you can :)
Thinking of you both as you travel down a new road in life.
Going away from home for college gave me time to become an independent adult, which I couldn't have learned until I moved away for awhile. It strengthened my relationship with my parents:) It makes you realize how important family connections are!
I love the pun on the Fork in the Road. Congrats to your daughter and the best of luck to her.
Go off and have all the adventure you can! The road less traveled will give you wonderful insight and life experience that can only be learned by you. Good Luck and prayers to you.
When the going seems hard, remember that you really CAN do this. Be encouraged and remember all those (like your aunt) who are rooting for you!
To Nicole: Be free and soak up as much as you can in your new environment!
To Cath: Give some space, admire from afar, and stay as supportive as ever!
I'm inspired by the closeness of your relationship with your daughter; make sure to hold on to that! I love my mother so much - she is my friend and my rock.
Boy this poem took me back to my junior high days when I used this poem and a picture of a country road for my poetry notebook and the teacher did not understand why I used a pic of a real road--she didn't think I understood the poem--I'm glad to see we think alike! Things change as your children grow up but there are so many ways to keep in touch nowadays. Good luck to your daughter as she follows her dreams.
In the past three years, we've moved our little family twice and have ended up across the country, away from our family and friends and the city we grew up in. In that time, we have had an incredible adventure. Your darling girl will have the time of her life because she is already well on her way to understanding that this world is more than just the house you live in or the place you work. Congratulations and good luck on your wonderful next journey! You have a terrific foundation with a mom who loves you as much as she so obviously does!
Mother to mother, Cath, my heart is breaking for you as well! I also sent both of my sons off to college two weekends ago and I've been in a 'funk' every since! My advice to you is simple, throw yourself into what you love!! I spend my days papercrafting and look forward to their daily calls reporting on their classes, tests, homework and social activities! Hang in there ... what doesn't kill us will make us stronger. And, yes, you should be very proud of your daughter for making such a grown up and responsible decision -- what a bright and successful future she will have, and how lucky she is to have a loving and supportive Mom!
I adore Robert Frost and this poem... it has such meaning in my life.
Here's a thought for you...
There are always choices... Two paths to take. One is usually the easy way, with its only reward being that it's easy.
All the best to you both on this new journey,
lise
I moved 1800 miles away from home to attend graduate school. It was one of the most rewarding decisions I ever made. Graduate school is both an intellectual and very personal journey; you learn about your subject and about yourself. May you grow in appreciation of who you are and who you dream of being. Best of luck to both of you as you undertake this new adventure and new phase in life!
I moved away from home for college, then even farther for my first job, then even farther for a 3 month trip to Europe. Now I am back near my family and that separation and growth has given me a different outlook on things. I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything!
Plus keep in mind, with phones and cameras and airplanes, loved ones are not really as far away as they seem.
Great Poem Cath. Today while reading your post, I realized that a decision that I made almost 6 years ago was the right decision. It has been an agonizing thought on my mind all these years if I had made a mistake due to all the risk I had taken. Reading Robert Frost today made me realize that the decision I made HAS brought me happiness in more ways than one and nothing comes without a price.
Cath...the initial seperation is going to be hard, but it is inevitable!! She was going to leave sometime. {{HUGS}} to you!!!
Nicole, good luck!!! You deserve the best!!! Everyone does!!!
Oh.. What a tough day for you. Most forks in the road are sad and happy. Good luck to your daughter in her new transition.
I always make the worst decisions when I decide rather than it happening to me.
I'm looking at your website precisely because my only child left for college 1000 miles away last year. It tore my heart out, whilst knowing that he was doing exactly what I wanted him to do, and had planned for him to do for 18 years. I needed a diversion, so I signed up for a rubber stamp card making class. The rest is history. I have been totally immersed it in every day since. I'm so grateful to all the creative cardmakers in cyberspace who share their work with the rest of us. It helps me keep my mind off my lonely empty nest. Thanks! My advice is to find a new road to explore yourself. (PS, hope that deadline isn't real.)
My best wishes to Nicole, follow your heart always would be my advice. I've made a few tough decisions in my life with no regrets as I have always followed my heart. Not long ago, I quit a full-time job that I love, because I felt my parents needed me home. My dad has Alzheimers, and I sincerely love spending every moment I can with him. Cath, letting go is not easy but Nicole will always have you in her heart. She will always be there for you as you would for her. :)
Always take the road less travelled...always decide things for yourself and not based on what others are doing. So what if everyone wants to be a doctor, if that's not what you want to do then who cares what others want? I really wish I did something more artsy with my life instead of something practical.
I love the pictures you've chosen to illustrate The Road Less Traveled! So thoughtful, so poignant!
Nicole, OWN IT! Own every adventure, every opportunity, small tragedy, roadblock, and triumph! Make it YOUR journey! Best of luck! Cheers!!!!
Thankfully , in todays world, you can always pick up the phone, be it a landline or cell and hear her sweet voice ! Or email. Or text ..tweet ..facebook. So many wonderful ways of communication available to us.
Luck and Blessing to Nicole ! (and a warm hug for Mom)
Congratulations Nicole on this wonderful new adventure of graduate school. Although further away from home than you've been in the past, home is in your heart, you can't truly leave it behind. I'm also a big believer in you "can" go home again. My oldest son was away from home getting his Masters, the past two years. While he wanted to go on and get his doctorate, that wasn't to be just yet. Instead he found a teaching job, just 45 minutes from where we live and he and his wife have relocated back "home". You don't always know where the road will lead so make the most of the road you're on! Best of luck to you and your Mom.
I interview artists on a regular basis, and so many of them talk about how they were just driven to do what they do - so my advice always is - do what you have to do, whether or not there is a guarantee of success.
Great choice in poem... Cath. Nicole, don't fear the road less traveled & never meet a stranger on it... you never know where opportunity may be hiding:)
Have a great time... it sounds like you have an exciting times ahead of you- enjoy every minute of it!
Well we are a military family and so we do not live near any family which is hard. My best advise would be to call each other often and keep the lines of communicaion open and make sure to treasure every visit and every phone conversation. Also while my husband was deployed we used Skype and it was wonderfull!!! We could see each other while talking, I highly recommend it!!!
{{HUGS}} Cath....As a mother, remember that this is the day you have been preparing your daughter for. She feels safe and secure enough in herself to take the path she feels is for her. You, as her mother, gave her that confidence in herself to make that decision. What a wonderful mother you are to have raised such a beautiful and knowledgeable daughter! Nicole, embrace the journey! Be open to all those new experiences and don't forget to call your mother!! LOL
My less traveled road: I quit a great job that I had been at for 13 years to take a job lcoser to home so I could be a better mother to my son.---Totally worth it!
To Nicole: One of my favorite quotes: "There is nothing ahead of you greater than the power within you"
to Cath: Sorry, I don't have any advice because I have not been down this road. Maybe as you travel it you could share some advice with us later on.
Nicole, I took the road less traveled a few times in my life - one being to go live in the UK for several months for my work. Other then a trip to Scotland only a few months before, the only time I had been outside of the US was to go to Canada. While there were both trials and blessings in this adventure, the experience allowed me to learn so much about myself.
Cath, my parents were afraid and excited for me all at the same time. Phone calls (pre-skype days) and cards and letters kept us connected and made me feel that my parents support was never very far away.
Maybe I was willing to take "the raod less traveled" because I worked for a company for several years, whose company motto was "Taking the road less traveled" (of course this was a company that also had a corporate bagpipper and required the CEO and the president to wear dress kilts to all major meetings and events!!)
Embrace the adventure!
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
This is what I did when I made the decision 10 years ago to leave all of my friends and loved ones behind to move across the country and start a new life for myself after I graduated. I was in tears for most of the trip until I got to my destination....had I not done that, I may not have met my husband with whom I will be celebrating 7 years of wedded bliss, and I would not have had my 2 beautiful and wild little boys. Do not regret it for a second....you just never know where that road will lead you!!
Congratulations on your new life venture, Nicole! How very exciting for you. There will be so many new places and things to experience and explore...a whole new world. You will be greatly missed by your mom, but it is so obvious how proud she is and the time will pass in the blink of an eye for you both ~ enjoy every moment of this wonderful journey!
My advice to Nicole: Try to be open to every new idea, philosophy or perspective that comes your way. Don't accept any of them blindly or without question, of course. Interrogate. Investigate. Reflect. The formula for a successful graduate career is pretty simple in the end: Read thoroughly and constantly + ask a lot questions + believe in yourself. Oh, and don't forget where you came from or the family that loves you. Home and family will get you through many a long night, I promise.
My advice to Nicole: Try to be open to every new idea, philosophy or perspective that comes your way. Don't accept any of them blindly or without question, of course. Interrogate. Investigate. Reflect. The formula for a successful graduate career is pretty simple in the end: Read thoroughly and constantly + ask a lot questions + believe in yourself. Oh, and don't forget where you came from or the family that loves you. Home and family will get you through many a long night, I promise.
Forget the road less traveled. Take every single road that you have the opportunity to take! A year after college I quit my job, sold everything I had and backpacked through Europe. No, I did not have money. I scraped every penny and lived on nothing. When I returned to the US (Northern New York) I knew there had to be more. I did freelance for money and then packed my Ford Escort and moved to Baltimore. I knew no one. Stupid? No. Brave? Maybe. Bottom line is that I was up for the experience. I knew it would change me. This summer I spent three weeks in Kenya on a mission trip. Again, changed for the good. Just yesterday my family was at an amusement park. My kids were in awe that I would try all the rides. I explained it simply, "I am scared to death as I get on each one, but I know at the end it will be worth it. I will have overcome the fear and experienced something amazing". The world is out there and you have no idea where it will take you! Have faith. Have courage. And know that you are EXACTLY where you are supposed to be. Have Fun!!!!
I recommend that Nicole have confidence her abilities and seize any opportunities that come her way!
Cath - she'll be fine (especially since she's coming to Canada!), she'll always love you and you'll always be her mom. I moved away from my parents 16 years ago to go to university and it was a great adventure. I'm still far away and miss seeing them all the time but always cherish them and when I do see them (about once a year) it's fantastic.
Enough babbling! Good luck and big hugs to you both!
Good luck Nicole!! What a scary wonderful thing......to follow your dream. And Cath, take heart, with the technologies of today, you two can easily connect on a daily basis. My husband and I survived a long distance relationship (across the pond) when we were courting. Thank goodness for email!! The fact that she won't be near by physically will make your reunions all the more sweet.
I had my daughters young. I vowed they would become independent self confident women knowing no limitations to what they wanted to become. It is a blessing to be sitting here now with adult daughters who are confident accomplished young women. While they both didn't end up in the career choice they made when entering college, they were not afraid to make changes and travel a different path. Nicole continue to trust yourself - you will be surprised where life will take you. Enjoy the ride! Cathy, both my daughters live states away from us and I do not like it, but I accomplished what I started out to do - raised independent women who believed in themselves. They both chose professions that help others and this world become better. They call me daily and know that I and their father are always here for them and love them. This can be a wonderful time for you both. Embrace it and soar!
What a beautiful tribute! My eldest just left for grad school too, I sent him off with a copy of "Oh, The Places You'll Go", by Dr. Seuss! He's the first in our family to attend grad school, so I am beyond proud of him. I am sad to see him go, but I have to stand back and realize that all of the hopes and dreams I have for my children are starting to come true!! Nicole, this is just the start of what I pray will be a happy, love-filled and rewarding journey for you! You must be so excited and nervous, the hard work is going to be soooo worth it .Good luck and God Bless!
Always take the road less traveled! Life is an adventure and as long as you know your Mom is at the end of that phone line you'll be just fine. I'm 40 and my Mom is always there for me and has been but what I love the most is that when I have fallen (and yes it has been many time) it's not her that's picked me up but myself because that is what she taught me to do. Good luck and live life fully!
Cath you'll be OK, you've got us to keep you busy :)
Nichole, Just breath, live each day to it's fullest. Remember we all have to make our own journey in life. Mostly, this is YOUR time to live your life & to SHINE! Best of luck to you...you'll do fantastic!!
Mom, let her spread her wings and fly! She is just a phone call away and always in your thoughts & heart. You have raised her to be a smart young lady. Be strong.
Nicole, have the time of your life! And welcome to Canada!
The best day of my 5 week whirlwind trip through Europe at 17 yrs old was when my best friend and I had to make out own way around a big city in Italy to find a luggage repair person. We didn't go on the tour of the town with everyone else, but somehow communicated with the locals, learned to use a map in Italian, etc. My advice--don't just do the expected. Some of your best times are the unexpected...
I know I missed the contest but wanted to say I was blessed by your post and I even teared up a little. I love that poem and it was just beautiful how you illustrated it and of course the sentiment that was added by Nicole's new adventures, well it was very sweet. (My oldest just started college and even tho he's staying at home for awhile, it still hit close to home.)
Congrats Nicole on this amazing adventure you are about to embark on! I have taken many paths that have lead me away from home for a bit, but the good news is that you can always come back :) I also went far away to college and it was magical! Take advantage of all the new experiences available to you: eat new food, see all the touristy places in your new area (and of course take lots of pictures), call home often, and make sure your Mom gives us updates on how you are doing.
Congrats Nicole:) Good luck on this new adventure!!!
As for me--the "road less traveled" that I took was moving out of my hometown. My entire family (mom is #6 of 13 kids--so there are over 40+ grandkids...dad's in a family of 5 with lots of grandkids) live within the same county!! All of us! In one county!!! It's in the country and a small town too--only three aunts/uncles moved out of state. So I followed that path....moved the farthest away (first Germany and than Florida). Best path I've ever taken!
Love those pics today!! TFS!
Enjoy all of the new experiences you are about to have, Nicole, as you start this new journey in your life.
Cath, just know that this experience will make her a stronger woman no matter what she goes through and be glad that she can have it. You will be ok because you have friends that will be there for you.
My hubby and I graduated from college, got married and moved 500 miles from home all in a span of 2 weeks. It is the best thing we ever did. Being away from family made us more independent, more self-assured, and more mature. Granted I had my hubby, but it still did a lot to make me into the adult I am today. I have moved 4 times so far during my married life and each time has been far from friends and family. We have a choice in our attitude and I have always chose to see it as an adventure. Seize the day! Live in the moment. See the positive in every day. These are the things I would tell your daughter. We only have one life to live so go for the gusto! I love the rollercoaster ride of life. :D Best wishes to her new adventure. PS. My hubby has to go to Toronto on business often. I have accompanied him and I LOVE Toronto. What a fun and vibrant city! She will love it.
My heart goes out to you, Cath, as a mom, but also can imagine how proud you must be.
As someone who did leave everything behind to pursue not just a dream, but a call, I know that there will be some tough times ahead for Nicole. But, I also know that I have grown so much as a person by God's grace because of it and am thankful even for the hardships(loneliness was a big one for me) that made me who I am today. Our life is full of adventure and I will never trade it for the world. Your Nicole will be a stronger woman for her choice and I pray that she will find many adventures in Toronto. Hugs to you as you have to let go of your little girl.
My raod less traveled...oh man. I guess maybe when I decided to stop playing soccer at the collegiate level, thought I would let everyone I knew down, especially my dad. Ended up a good choice for me because I wanted to open new other doors for myself.
To Nicole- every choice and every road, good or bad, has something in it worthwile. There is always something to gain, even when it is hard to see what that something is. In fact, sometimes when we have a hard time seeing what we are gainling or learning, that is when we get the best lessons from life. Also, remember that change is inevitable.
Thanks for the lovely poem and the wonderful picts today, all inspiring!
15 years ago I made the decision to move to the States, half way around the world from my birthplace, Indonesia. I miss my whole family every day. But, the whole experience is so enriching my life. It made me more independent & it gives me opportunity that I wouldn't have otherwise. My advice to Nicole, when you feel down & homesick, cry if you have to & then find something that cheer you up. Everything that's worthwhile will need some sacrifice. xx
I see a trend repeating itself in our world. We left home, went off to school, got married, had kids.....moved back so grandma & grandpa could babysit! Chances are...she'll be back! In the meantime, soar with her and enjoy her travels through her!
You look like sisters! I have taken the long an winding road. Not sure if it is less traveled, but I can testify to the fact that the long way leads to friends all over the country, wonderful memories and stores to tell, confidence and a profound appreciation for being home when possible. I hope that Nicole can say the same things and then some as she travels her road. Best of Luck1
Since I'm still too young to have experienced children leaving my home, I can't give my viewpoint as a mom, but I can give advice as the daughter who left. We LOVE mail. Be sure to send her many care packages and letters to help brighten her day! Thanks for the chance to win and here's to the next step in life.
Don't forget to have a little "clean" fun, too! Graduate school is a lot of work (I know), but always make room for something that makes you laugh and giggle and find a little peace and quiet too!
Loved the photos today! Some were quite breathtaking!
My advice is for both you and Nicole.
Keep your head up and look ahead for all the joys that come your way. Keep you heart open for all the love of new things and for all the memories of old things. Never forget the past and never stop looking to the future.
Good luck to you both! Happiness is sure to come your way!
My road was to leave behind a career as a graphic designer to be a stay at home mom...no regrets.:)
Wishing Nicole (and you) all the best as she starts down this new road!
I'm 26 and will be going to grad school next year- although I don't have any sage advice, I wish Nicole all the best of luck!
I am still many years away from my girls going to school (oldest hasn't even started) but I'm sure it will happen in a blink of an eye! My only advice is you need to have a little fun but never forget that school is your current priority. Enjoy!!!
I love your post today. When ou are especially missing her, dig out those scrapbooks and photos ans relive those precious memories. Stay in contact and try to visit where she is going so you have a visual when she shares what is going on in her life.
I am sure she will be fine and will learn so much! My husband and I left our hometown for a few years but knew we wanted to come 'home' when he had kids, and that is exactly what we did. Our son has great relationships with his grandparents and that is how we wanted it. Good luck with the change!
Cath,
This is beautiful! As a mother of two married daughters, I can tell you that their leaving the "nest" is bittersweet. But, know that you will rejoice in her successes and be there to listen when she needs advice. Your relationship will strengthen but she will always be your little girl.
Thanks for sharing this with us!
Hugs, Lisa
Cathy...good luck as you both enter this new chapter. I am beginning a new chapter also...one without my sister. It has been a tough summer and as I watch my nephews at the start of a new school year without their mother, my heart breaks. We all have Roads to Travel and I wish you and Nicole the best on this journey!
Dating a younger guy was always out of the question for me...until I met my current bf. I gave him a chance & he's been the absolute best. It's been 3 wonderful years now. :)
Nicole - Have fun, never be afraid, and be yourself. Things like this are always a growth to who you are and don't be afraid to venture out and try NEW things or things you never thought you would do. Cath - You will hear from her often, she will always need your wisdom & support and knowing that you are helping her in personal growth will be so rewarding as you watch her grow!
The best advice I can give is to be both curious and fearless. Being curious leads you to explore areas you may not have considered before and possibly into a new passion. Being fearless about this exploration and about implementing your dreams is the surest way to succeed. What has inspired me the most today was a passage from a Martha Beck article that may help in being fearless: "Psychologists have found our brains can't simultaneously experience fear and appreciation. That's why it's so helpful to make a list of things that give you comfort, support, and hope. When things keep going wrong and fear returns, lengthen your list. As this practice trains your brain not to fear, you'll notice there are wonderful things to be found in the valleys between your so-called peak experiences." All the best to Nicole as she ventures out into the world with passion and courage!
For you, Cath - the only thing I can say is that it's obvious you two have a bond, and that doesn't change. It's amazing how strong (and stretchy) heartstrings are!
The food, fuel, motel picture ispired me most. I just love the red letters against the blue sky and clouds. I think I might have to make a card with a sky background and have red letters prominently in the design somewhere. The design is fumbling around in my brain as we speak. Thanks for the inspiration and the chance to win a prize!
Hmm...I don't venture to give advice, but my mom always says she wanted to raise independent daughters, just not THAT independent (since we both now live far, far away from her). Phone calls, video calls, and lots of e-mails help us stay in touch.
Cath, Here is some of my wisest words. Being a mom of four and having done this many times, this is for you and Nicole. I am posting a card tonight in honor of the new adventures with a little piece of my life attached. Nicole, just make sure to follow those dreams and stay on course! Your road may have forks, chose wisely! But in any case, your mom will always be there. Cathy, you will miss her every day and you will tear up or even cry, but she will always be with you, no matter where she is or you are. Enjoy every minute you have on the phone. Send e-mails, letters and packages with just anything and she will smile! Help her by being the strong one! Everything will be OK, she's in God's hands! What I enjoy most about your blog Cathy, is you!
I came across this advice somewhere and return to it again and again: Don't worry about failing; worry about the chances you miss when you don't even try.
As for her joyful presence, you'll still have it even if it's far away. And there's always email, texting, IMing, Skyping, etc. :)
Nicole~ my only advice is to enjoy every minute of being gone. Sound strange as you are about to leave home? Maybe. But I made the tough choice to leave home and go far away once, and the whole experience went by far too quick. You will miss home sure, but what a different, better person you will be! Enjoy!
Nicole, best of luck! Take lots of pictures and make sure to make some friends in your program to grab dinner with, etc. Cath, perhaps you could Skype with Nicole on a regular basis to ease the separation a bit? I know it's not the same.
(I'm going to be an optimist and assume the deadline is Sunday, August 29th?)
We took the road less traveled by adopting a sibling group of 3 kids when we already had 2 bio kids. It has been a long journey but we believe we've made a difference in their lives.
Congratulations to you both!
Mom, who helped her get ready for life with love and support and to daughter for her accomplishments so far!!!
Enjoy your adventure!
My advice for your daughter is to call her mom. Mom's do know best! :)
Love that fork in the road picture! Funny!
Best wishes to you both!
I opened my own real estate office a few years ago and it has definately been a challenging blessing.
It's a good life!
Terri E.
I moved away from my family and boyfriend to another province in order to pursue my career in 1991, deciding that it would be for a couple of years-max. I did not like being in a small town, away from a big city; missed my family...fast forward to 2010. I am married to the "old" boyfriend, have 3 children and am still living in the same small town that I left the city for. I love my life here...I have made some wonderful friends over the years here, and have learned to really enjoy small-town living. I have a home that I never would be able to afford in the city; have discovered so many talented people here and my children have had experiences that might never have had living in the city....
Nicole...have a wonderful time and embrace anything that sparks your passion while you are there....you never know where life will take you!
Cath-no advice as my chickens are still in the coop; but I know that I used to count Saturdays until I would see my family or Jeff again. It was much less daunting than days. My phone bill was over $100 a month. (This was b4 the great long-distance plans we have now AND I used to call after 11 when it was a 60% discount!) Enjoy how technology will keep you close!
It's hard to type with tears in my eyes! I just have to say that I have so much admiration for Nicole for knowing what she wants to do, and for having the courage and motivation to reach her goals. Aside from the sad part of this, you must be so proud of her! I know you two will be in touch - send her lots of cards! And plan your first get-together so you can look forward to that.
My advice to Nicole: enjoy the experience! I don't know if you've lived with your mom until now, but if you have then living on your own is a great experience & you learn so much through it.
Cath: Talk to her through Skype- it's free so you don't have to worry about using up your minutes so you can talk as long as you want! :)
In 1989 I left my hometown to go with my husband to a state 1000 miles away. It was scary but I looked at it as an adventure. We returned 18 years later and I look back at all the things we experienced and it was truly an experience I will never forget. And one I probably would not have had if we had stayed in Texas.
Make friends. Explore. Remember your roots.
Change is hard, but it can be good... you really never know how great things are till you get a fresh look at the same picture. Carpe diem!
Cath ~ Just remember that you have something to do with the smart, driven woman she has become. You helped her get the skills to be on her own now. Revel in knowing that she is well-equipped.
Cath, you should be so proud of yourself for raising a daughter who is not afraid to take wing. And Nicole, pretend you're a tourist in your new city and experience everything it has to offer.
We raise our children to fly so to speak! Hard as it is that is what we as parents strive for. Phone calls and the internet bring us close together faster than ever before. You will all be better for it.
Best of lucky to Nicole as she starts this most exciting part of her life! My advice to her is to take every opportunity to learn near things and enjoy every minute for what it offers. To you Cathy, remember that your job as a parent has been to help prepare Nicole for this flight away from home!! Stay in touch by phone and computer...and watch her grow with pride!!
My own biggest adventure was starting a business with my hubby when were in our 40's. Had to learn a whole new career and set of skills, but oh how proud I was!! Never stop moving forward!
I am about to embark on my own road..... going back to university after 20 years. A life's regret that I didn't finish my degree back in the 80's - so I am going back to rewrite that part of my life. My son is attending his first year of university this year. He is staying at home until April but is then off on his own adventure. I too will miss his presence in our home. He is funny, smart, and kind. I guess the only thing that makes it easier for me is knowing that the alternative is for him to stay home - and I certainly don't want him to be living with me forever! I can't wait to see/hear about what fabulous adventures he is having.
I always did what was expected of me - the 'normal' job (9-5 in an office with regular salary), because it was secure. Then something happened that caused me to change my perspective on everything, and I made some major decisions very quickly. DH & I had been trying to get pregnant while I was dealing with far too much stress in my life - when the lightbulb went off, I quit my job, stopped trying to have a baby, and became self employed doing something I enjoyed, even though it was far less income, and not an 'acceptable' job according to my parents (doing nails as opposed to office work). I got pregnant almost instantly. I realized then that you have to do ONLY what makes you happy, even if others might not approve.
2 most important things I've learned since having my kids: Life is too short to be unhappy and you only get one shot at it; & you should only surround yourself with positive, supportive people who are there for you no matter what. Forget anyone who ever questions what you know is best for you.
I remember the very first time I read that poem. I was in seventh grade and the substitute teacher read it in a deadpan monotone, but I didn't care. I remember the words seemed like they were going to leap right out of my textbook... it was as if he was speaking directly to my heart! The road less traveled is not always an easy one, but pursuing the desires of our hearts leads to the deepest satisfaction. I wish your sweet daughter all the desires of her heart to come true and I pray courage for you as you let her go. Sending big, big hugs from Denmark!!
I left home and moved 12 hours away from the closest family I had to take my first "dream" job. It turned out to really be a great job and a great move, and the time I spent there was the best time of my life. She has a great opportunity ahead!
i, too, left all behind to go to grad school. it was hard at first but worth it. living on very little money 1200 mi from home with others in the same position formed some great friendships. and the degree i earned opened up doors that led to a great career. good luck to both of you.
Nicole: always explore all roads because there just might be the one that leads you to a happy place in your life. Be adventurous and open to all new things. Mom will also explore new roads, some with you and some alone. It is a joyous time for both of you, so enjoy the experience!
That has been my all time favorite poem, hands down. My hubby and I took the road less traveled one year after we were married and moved to Spain for 2 years. It has made all of the difference in our marriage, our priorities and just how we view life in general! Tell her to hang in there, and remember nothing worth having ever comes easy! :)
I was actually inspired by your thoughts of your daughter's new adventure. I miss my daughhter who is away at college! I think she needs a happy card!
Best of luck to Nicole! The advice I have for her is: Call your mother! Even if it's just a short chat or a quick message to share with her, it'll mean a lot!
DeniseB
Great poem. I love it. Good Luck to your daughter
Ahhhh...bittersweet...seeing your baby leave the nest. My whole life has been one long journey down the road less travelled....the decision to be a stay at home mom to our 5 kids, the decision to homeschool them, the decision to have my mom move in with us so that my kids would know their amazing grandmother, the decision to move from our home in Georgia and start it all over again here in NC so that my husband could be closer to his aging parents....the list goes on and on. Here's the best advice I have for both of you: Look forward with hope, and only look backward in joy...no fears for the future, no regrets for the past. The path has a way of leading you into green pastures you never knew existed. Blessings on both of you!
Congratulations to both you and Nicole. To Nicole for following her dream and to you for giving her your blessing!! You already have a full and fulfilling career and life, and I have no doubt that you will continue to live your life with creativity and joyfulness. Sure, you will miss Nicole, but you will also draw happiness from knowing that she is moving toward becoming her own person. The best for you both of you!!
Nicole, best wishes and have fun and leave the world a better place! I imagine you've already done that, as your mom is going to miss you bunches! Cath, trust that you've raised a smart woman who will be doing you proud wherever she is...and don't watch old family videos when you're down, you'll miss her too much! Save those for when she's home so you can enjoy seeing her when she's little while she's within hug's reach!
I have been down that path with my own son and it will get easier. He just finished grad school last year and has now been living out of state in his career for over a year. You want them to grow up so bad but when they do, one can't help but feel a little sad inside. Just know that you have done a good job in raising her and that you have to trust she will remember what you have taught her as she travels life's path. Many blessings to her as she ventures down the road less traveled.
What an amazing post! You've provided your own advice- Nicole is making a wonderful decision. Best of luck to her and to you and the others who will miss her. Fortunately, in this day and age, we have so many options to keep us close when the distance is far.
as a mom who 'let'... no, encouraged... our daughter to go to a college 500 miles away from home, i understand. three years later, we 'let' her study for a semester in greece--much harder of all of us! but, she is left with memories that we never could have given her. nicole is a beautiful girl, mom, and has a wonderful life ahead, as well as behind. i'm sure you both will be glad soon enough that you 'let' her go. thanks, also, from me, for my favorite poem and beautiful illustrations. ~k
Oh Cath - I LOVE this poem. It's one of my favs! I've left family and friends behind not once but twice, for school then post-graduate training. It was not easy but I have no regrets! I am now at a place where i can perhaps move closer to home again, having experienced such wonderful opportunities and met many great folks. Even though leaving home is so difficult, if you take the chance, you'll never have to wonder "what if...". Good luck!
Oh Cath, you must have a heavy heart! Proud ... but heavy. It is sooooo impossibly hard to let our children 'go.' Frankly, I haven't yet and mine is a grown man ... somehow, I suspect no mother ever truly let's go. We just 'let' ... and hope and pray and cry and wait. Mostly wait. Your beautiful daughter will be just fine ... flying happily ahead into her exciting new life, ripe with choices and opportunities. It's us Moms who are forever changed and challenged by this strange, new world.
But, I s'pose this is our job: to give them roots so that they feel safe and strong enough to test their wings.
Good luck, Cath, but no worries: you'll make it!
PS: Loved today's post :)
This is when you get to relish all of those scrapbooks and look back at how well you have raised her!
I am sure she will do great and at least she knows she has a wonderful home to come back to!
This is when you get to relish all of those scrapbooks and look back at how well you have raised her!
I am sure she will do great and at least she knows she has a wonderful home to come back to!
What a great post, one of my favorites. I hope your daughter has an amazing year!
Tell you what, let me know where she lives and I'll check on her! I live just north of Toronto, my sister lives there and hubby works there. :) just remember, worrying doesn't change anything so do whatever you have to do to avoid it. If you raised her well, and I'm sure you did, she'll be fine
Best wishes to you both.
Rebecca
Good luck, sister friend! New, exciting things await you down this road. I'll miss you so stay in touch! And soak it in--every last drop. It's less traveled for a reason--it's tough, but the juice is well worth the squeeze!!!!!
My best wishes to Nicole on her educational adventure! Because that's what learning should be...an adventure. One in which you're challenging yourself and exploring subjects and experiences that you haven't delved into yet. Scary? Yes, it certainly can be, but Nicole will always have support from her loving family, especially her mom! :)
As for you, Cath, I wish you the best too...and honestly, I have less words of wisdom for you, because I'm not sure how I'll handle it when my kids leave for school (they're only 11 and 8 right now). My son went to his first overnight camp this summer, and I was a mess!
OK, so I'm probably not helping you, Cath. But please take comfort in the fact that Nicole is following the path that's right for her, and as her parent, you're doing the BEST thing by supporting her.
Boy this sounds familiar - with me as the daughter. I was the shy, quiet bookworm and my parents never thought I would actually leave home (and stick with it!). I did - I went to university about 4 hours from home and when I finished I moved even further away - to Ottawa, several provinces West of my home province of Newfoundland - to work for the Canadian federal government. That all started more than two decades ago. But I still call my parents house "home" - and your daughter always will as well. You can both take comfort in the fact that whatever she pursues in life, your love has given her the confidence to achieve her dreams - and your dreams for her. Wishing you all well but knowing you will both needs boxes and boxes of Kleenex.
What a bittersweet time this is for you and your precious daughter, and the best advice I can give you both is to follow your heart and live your dreams. It will be tough for both of you at first, but you'll grow to new levels and enjoy new experiences. The house will feel terribly empty at first, but eventually you'll get used to it, I promise. Heartfelt best wishes to you both.
Congratulations to Nicole for choosing to continue on with grad school. So many people get comfortable in their jobs and forget what they want to do or what they set out to do. So this will be a wonderful experience for her. I don't know what to say to you...I know how much you will miss her. (Mine went to Germany). But you will have phone calls and mail and in a few years she will be finished with grad school and then you can welcome her back home.
For Nicole: Live true.
For Cath: I have found great comfort in chocolate.
;)
I know how you feel. My daughter went off to Grad school 1500 miles away and I knew she was going to stay in that state so far away from home. That was back in 1999. Since then, she has persued her career, got married and has two beautiful children. The moral to all of this is be happy for your children. You want the best for them. We had our turn to make our lives and then it is our children's turn. I don't see them a lot but we all love each other and when we do see each other, we make the best of the time that we have to spend together. Good luck!!!
I live 2 hours away from my mom and sisters. Because of our schedules, I don't see them as often as I'd like. But now with the internet, cell phones that you can use to text and send pictures, you don't feel that far away! Webcams are nice to have too :)
For Nicole: it's hard at first because you think you see familiar faces at the store or on the street and then you realize it's not possible that it's the person you're thinking about, because they don't live there! That happened to me a lot at first :( it was hard.
But it gets better! You'll be ok.
You'll both be ok.
Take advantage of technology to communicate often and writing letters and sending packages is a good idea too!
Best wishes for you both!
Often the "road less traveled" is sticking to your values when you're away from home and family for the first time. So I'd advise Nicole to reach for the stars but remember your roots.
The hardest thing I have ever done was move away from my family. My advice is find something familiar in your new location like a local church, fabric or scrapbook store. The people you meet there will share your same interests and may become some of your greatest friends. Best wishes!
very nice - best of luck Nicole - may you find what you are looking for!
Sandra
All I can say is make sure she emails or calls you a couple of times a week so she won't feel homesick or you will not feel forgotten.
I looooooooooove this poem!
I'm sure it will be tough on both of you, but it's awesome that you can already see, with some perspective, it is the best choice!! Good luck to you both! ;)
All the best to both of you!You'll miss her, but she is only a phone call away. Nicole, life is a journey to be enjoyed, reach out and make the most of it!
Nicole- All the best- Embrace and enjoy every minute of the journey :)
Congrats Nicole...wish you luck for a new and most important phase of your life as I feel Education is the only asset, which no one can take away from you...so enjoy ad have a great start.
Cath...I understand, what you must be going thru...I have a long way to experience this but I missed my daughter so much when she went to 1 week Camp this summer. Later when you look back, you would be so proud. Btw. your daughter looks so much like you and her smile is so like yours...so keep this photo by your bedside to remember this lovely smiles of you 2 together...
My daughter now lives in California (working on her Ph.D) and I am here in New York. It has taken a while to get used to how far away she is, the time change (so I don't wake her up in the morning if I call), and how long it is between visits. What has helped? Time, arranging a weekly (long) phone call, and knowing that she is really just a phone call or email away. When she first went to college there was AOL, but there were no cell phones so I try to remember how much easier it is now than then. Congrats to Nicole! We raised our daughters to be independent women and sometimes a big move is the price we pay, but the dividends are amazing.
The road less traveled that I took was the same one Nicole is taking. After my divorce, I packed up my belongings and my two small children, moved to Kansas City and went to grad school. It was the smartest decision I've ever made. Nicole, be open to new friends and experiences and enjoy yourself. It will be hard, but you can do it. Cath, I'm in your shoes as we speak. My daughter is in dental school. My advice to you is to listen to the woes and crises (maybe Nichole isn't a crisis queen like Amy) but don't shoulder them. NIcole will be fine. She wouldn't have gotten this far if she wasn't able to do this. For both of you, my hugs! I wouldn't have gotten through grad school without support from my friends and family and I couldn't get through dental school without the same :o)
Wow - what an amazing tribute to motherly love. I was blessed with the same. Nicole, your education is something that will always be with you - nobody can ever take it and it will only improve with age. Enjoy the experience!
Wow - what an amazing tribute to motherly love. I was blessed with the same. Nicole, your education is something that will always be with you - nobody can ever take it and it will only improve with age. Enjoy the experience!
Wow, that's quite a tear jerking post.
I wish you the absolute best, and much success. This will be a wonderful experience, even though the unknown seems a little scary right now. (For Mom too)
I don't have any real words of wisdom for you Cath, as my oldest is a senior in h.s., so I've yet to experience this....my day's coming!
Many blessings...
I've watched three daughters decide on the path that was best for them and it was not easy since all three moved away. You make it a point to stay in touch and treasure the times you get to visit and spend time together. Nicole, you have a wonderful adventure ahead of you. Enjoy every moment and don't forget to call mom!
Wow! My dd just left WA state to move to TX to TEACH at her alma mater...what an honor and a priviledge that she wasn't even looking for, it just fell in her lap and she is capable. She bid goodbye to friends and family in WA and is making a new life..again...in TX.
As for the moms? Well, how can we hold them back? They have their life to live. They have their adventures before them. Their lives are rich and will become richer as we sit back and observe..and cheer...and cheer up when things are hard.
Life is good.
I lost my mother when I was a senior in high school and met my now hubby shortly thereafter. I had to finish school and college without her influence so i know that with you around to help she'll get through anything. they have so many ways to stay in touch now that you can still talk to her every day. I wish her all the good luck and hope she enjoys it and that you get to visit lots.
Just feel blessed that you have been successful in raising a confident, smart young woman who is pursuing her dream. Sad as it is to see her go, you have given her the love and skills to handle what life brings her. I am sure that is a goal we all have for our children. Good luck (my youngest child is also leaving for university) and God bless.
May your daughter have a wonderful adventure! Regardless of what the future holds, she will always have you. Fortunately, technology will allow you to stay in touch and see each other all the time :>)
Life is an adventure, so make the best from the adventure, explore, travel, and enjoy all that life has to offer.
Good luck to your daughter! Sounds like you raised a wonderful young lady! Change is so hard for those who leave and those you leave behind...I've made some very hard decisions some turned out great some not so much but I don't regret any of those decisions because its better to live for the now instead of the what if's. Wishing you well!!
Always take the road less traveled! It is so easy to decide to go along with things. As my hero and mentor Dave Ramsey says: when people make fun of you you'll know you're doing the right thing. (in regard to not spending money frivolously, saying no to spending opportunities). And this applies to so many things in life. The road less traveled is always full of adventure and learning!
Oh, and Nicole- stay away from those student loans if possible!
Mountain Road...the colors are captivating! My 23 year old son just departed to a unknown world, to pursue his master's degree. He knows absolutely no one, spent one afternoon at the new location to find an apartment, and is now staring a new life, just as your daughter is. Best wishes.
I love, love, love this poem! In fact, it was the poem that inspired me to head off to college from the small town I grew up in and yes, it has made all the difference! For Nicole, grab life by the horns! While it may take a while, really get to know yourself - your loves, your dislikes, and your preferences. This will build the foundation for a truly meaningful life! For Cath, know your daughter is on a wonderful path and support her in what may seem like even silly pursuits. Today, I am inspired by a wonderful show we saw last night! The music and visuals were amazing and I couldn't wait to get into the craft room!
As someone that went to boarding school for high school, away for college and away, again, for graduate school, the one thing I can tell your daughter is that God always places people to help her on her journey. It may be her parents for most of her life but now that she's moving away, He will continue to give her relationships and opportunities that will shape her into the woman He has always meant for her to be. Enjoy the journey!!!
Cath, though your heart is heavy thinking about how much you will miss Nicole, I have confidence that you both will grow through this seperation experience. Nicole will make new friends & enjoy new challenges.And you will have faith in the upbringing you have provided her, that she will make wise decisions & keep in touch.Good luck to you both. Love the poem too. Thanks
I took one of those roads too, twenty years ago, leaving the US for Germany. How else is one to know that there is a "moxie fab" world out there?
Hope you both enjoy your new life situations.
The hardest thing I ever did was leave home to join the Army. We were not allowed to make or receive phone calls for two month! Being totally cut off from everyone and everything I'd ever known was incredibly difficult. Once I got out of basic training my mother and I picked a day and time when one of would call once a week. The day of the week changed and we spoke more often at times but we spoke at that time very week till she died. Even after I moved back and live across the street for a few years we still spoke on that day of the week. We each looked forward to it even if we’d just seen or spoken to each other the day before. My girl friend and her mother have been doing the same thing for years. I would advise you do the same. I miss those calls so much.
Who has inspired you most today? My son! He called me today to say At 43 he is returning to school for his degree. I’m bursting my buttons with pride. It will be very difficult for him and his family in so many ways but the rewards at the end will be worth it.
Thanks for the chance to win those amazing goodies!!
Blessings to you both; Bernie
I sit hear thinking about life's choices...some are good and some teach us more than we could ever imagine. May God continue to bless you and may you stay true to yourself and follow your inner voice. Cath, your hearts are tied and a piece of you goes with her everywhere she will travel. Cherish the memories. Every day is a gift! :)
I found an old notebook I had written stuff in - very interesting
Beautiful words and beautiful art! What better way to send your daughter off for new roads to be traveled!
I have no words of advice - only hugs. My children are still babies, so to speak. My oldest begins first grade next week. I can't imagine one of my babies leaving the home nest yet. So all I can do is think of you and your daughter - in the new chapter of your lives - and hug my children a little tighter today, knowing that they won't be around forever.
Best wishes for you both.
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