My eldest finished school, had the formal, turned 18 and yesterday hopped on a plane and headed to Thailand. I told her to let me know when she arrived at the hotel, but then I didn't need to hear from her (though it would be nice to see some photos!). This was a big step for me, as she regularly texts to 'touch base' if missing from the house (so I know she got home from the party or got to work from school etc). While I'd love to hear her daily news, I thought it would be good for her independence (and more importantly, a lesson for me to keep my worry in check). This is a big milestone, this turning 18. Not so much for the kid, but for the parents. Giving freedom and independence is as hard a step for us, as any of the previous milestones for the child leading up to it. It's only day 1 but I'm hoping I can last the week without contacting her. Wish me luck!
As for gratitude, a few weeks back I did the Mushroom Racing. A couple of friends and I hearded out to Eastern Creek to dress as characters from Mario and go karting. There were games set up on the lawn - and if I'm honest, I would have happily paid the money to have a nerf gun war. I really delighted in that.
As for the karting, I didn't come last but I was def in the bottom five. I may watch a lot of motor sport but my skill is evidently in the armchair.
So I'm grateful that I can still find new things that make me squeal with joy and excitement. I'm grateful we live in an age where people are coming up with creative new ways to entertain and I get to experience them, regardless of my age. I'm even more grateful I have like-minded friends, happy to give these kooky things a punt!
What are you loving this week? #GlobalBlogging #TwinklyTuesday #KCACOLS and #StayClassyMama
I found the leaving school thing the hardest of all. While she was in school there was a period of time where I knew exactly where she'd be. Then school finished. It's hard to believe that it was 3 years ago. The letting go thing - or loosening of the reins - is super duper tough.
ReplyDeleteIt's a big adjustment for sure. Hang in there and have fun with your friends. #teamlovinlife
ReplyDeleteI love that you (and your family) try so many things out. I'm slack when it comes to trying new things so am always impressed.
ReplyDeleteI think it'd be hard with kids to cut the apron strings. My niece is 22 and has been living o/s off and on for a few years and I'm pretty sure she and her mum skype daily and text often.
Of course when I was young and went to Uni I recall being given coins so my brother and I could call home on Sunday night. After 6pm when it was cheap!
And another chapter of parenting has begun! The mushroom racing looks and sounds like it was great fun and different too!
ReplyDeleteSSG xxx
I can say categorically no! My girl is 28 and I still miss her terribly. If I don't hear from her at least once a week I get worried. You never let your babies go completely. #TeamLovinLife
ReplyDeleteGosh, this is a hard time. I've probably got another 15 years to get to this, but not looking forward. She will be fine, but it never stops the worry. Well done you #KCACOLS
ReplyDeleteI caved today and messaged her - she's having a great time and met up with some other school friends backpacking over there too. I got a letter from another Uni and thought it might be an offer so had to ask if she wanted me to open it (let's look at the phrasing there, I was actually asking if I could open it because I couldn't wait til she got back to find out! Hehehe! I'm hopeless)
ReplyDeleteIt is not easy letting them grow! #globalblogging
ReplyDeleteTracy
www.viewfromthebeachchair.com
Sounds like she is fill of adventure. We have an 18 year old away at Uni, it is hard letting them go. #GlobalBlogging
ReplyDeleteI love that you and your family try so many new things out! It sounds like your daughter is really loving life! That is so great! My boys are still very young, so I can't imagine what it is like having them leave home. The Mushroom Racing looks like so much fun!! Love the pictures. #KCACOLS
ReplyDeleteMy children are only 3 and 7 and I’m already dreading the moment I have to loosen the apron strings and they flee the nest!
ReplyDeleteThose Mario games sound amazing!! Great fun!
#KCACOLS
My eldest turning 18 is 14 years away but I imagine I'll be an emotional wreck when it happens so to wave him off to Thailand - wow! Well done for being so controlled with your mumming! I hope she's having an amazing time!
ReplyDeleteLooks like you had so much fun this week! #KCACOLS
I can't imagine my little ones as teens, let alone adults! Thanks for linking up with #stayclassymama
ReplyDeleteBack again, thanks for linking up with #globalblogging
ReplyDeleteLove the ideas the keep entertaining us and the kids even when they're all grown up! I have a little way to go yet, thank god! #KCACOLS
ReplyDeleteSarah | Mummykind
www.mummykind.com
God this must be so hard for you! I dread the day we have to introduce this kind of independent. Lots of luck for the week ahead! Thanks for linking up #twinklytuesday
ReplyDeleteOh wow, the letting go of your (just about) adult child must be so tough. I hope she has a wonderful time on her travels!
ReplyDeleteThe karting event looks fantastic, and you're right, it's lovely that there are things like this for people of all ages. You're never too old to have fun!
Thanks so much for linking up with #KCACOLS, hope you come back again next time! x