Nicky and I have always been very close, so the expectation (both mine and my clan's) was that I would fall apart upon his departure; but amazingly enough, the opposite was true.
We moved Nicky down to the University of Arizona on a Saturday, because he was going to participate in Bear Down Camp a week before the other students arrived. Since UA is only two hours from our home, our plan was to move him in and come home; and then go back with our girls the next day, since we had to attend a brunch with Nicky as part of the camp.
I thought that I'd be very emotional when I left him that first night; but I think that knowing I'd see him the next day, made it easier to leave without incident. We went back Sunday morning and although I got teary a few times during the brunch, I can honestly say that it wasn't because I thought it would be difficult to be apart; but because I was so happy to see what Nicky was going to be a part of. I was so proud of all that he had accomplished to get him to this point and I was very excited for him. Don't get me wrong, I must have hugged him a million times, (and not little short hugs) because part of me didn't think I could let go; but I managed to say goodbye without crying, and as much as I miss having him home, I haven't shed a tear.
My close friends were good to check on me often during Nicky's first few days at school. They asked how I was doing, and while I'm not sure that my response surprised them, it pleasantly surprised me. You see, Nicky was able to text me while he was at camp (in Prescott), but I didn't talk to him until 4 days later, when he was back on campus. The first time that we spoke on the phone, it was if my son had come alive. He was talkative and animated. I could hear the smile on his face in the way that he spoke. He asked me questions and told me about his experiences, and I felt incredibly gratified. As the week went on, and he participated in welcome activities and went to his first classes, it was obvious that he was exactly where he was meant to be and that he was doing all that we had raised him to do. So how could I be sad about that?
It's so hard to believe that Nicky will be done with his first year of college in just two months. He had a fantastic first semester, earning a 4.0 at the College of Engineering. He's taking his first computer programming class this semester and will be declaring his major as Electrical / Computer Engineering, with a concentration in Computer Engineering. He DJ's a weekly radio show, and he attends shabbat services at Hillel. He's made some good friends and he's actively looking for additional clubs to join; so what more could a Momma want?
I couldn't be more thrilled for Nicky. I enjoy hearing from him daily. I always look forward to the next time that I'm going to see him; and I guarantee that all of you Momma's who will be sending kids off to college soon, will feel the same. Just remember my words "THIS is what you raised them for." You raised them to go out into the world and make it a better place. You raised them to go out into the world and make their dreams come true. To go out into the world and learn who they are, apart from you; and then one day they'll come back and while they'll still be your baby, they'll be their own person.
Till next time,
Paige
No comments:
Post a Comment