Well, it's that time of year. Time for college and moving into dorms and apartments. And that's exactly what our family did this past weekend. The packing and repacking, the cramming boxes and drums and bedspreads and curtains and mattress pads (Twin XL, the magical and oh-so-not-as-easy-to-find-as-you-might-think size!) and all else into multiple vehicles and heading down the highway--for about 30 miles (more on that in a second).
Then came the multiple trips to Wal-Mart and Target, the "Whoopsie, I forgot shower curtain rings," and forty-nine other things. But we had fun together--okay, after a few obligatory arguments (just keepin' it real) and a yummy lunch at Panera Bread.
I feel like I've got the best of both worlds right now--our kids go to college nearby so I'm able to see them on occasion. And yet Nashville is large enough that they can have their own space too.
But for all the parents out there who are having to leave their precious babies hundreds of miles from home this month, I know what that feels like too. For her freshman year, our daughter (now a senior) chose a school in Arkansas and we were in Colorado at the time. I'll never forget what it felt like to drive away from her and to feel all those miles piling up between us, distancing us from each other. Not fun, but what a time of growth for her. And us.
So if you're a parent saying goodbye to a college student(s) this month, remember you're not alone, and know that as much as you love that son or daughter...God loves them far more. They're in good hands.
Here are some pics from our weekend (and from Sunday brunch last week at Macke's, a restaurant near Green Hills featured in the August issue of Southern Living). Delicious!
My family having lunch at Macke's
(in Green Hills)
Back to College!
Our son, Kurt (far right), with his best buddies (and roommates) Matthew (left) and Austin (middle)
My husband Joe, sizing things up
Matthew's parents, Mickey and Jerrie
Kurt with his grandparents (my folks who drove up from Atlanta to join in the fray)
Matthew and Kelsey (our daughter)
Kelsey and Kurt
Matthew and Kelsey (being fake sad)
Austin's parents (Ted and Julie)
It was great to spend time with Matthew and Austin's parents. What fun couples! They're both from Texas and head back home today. Don't worry Julie and Jerrie, we'll take good care of your boys!
And now...since writing was non-existent this weekend (ack!)...back to it!
