My Birdies Are Flying Away

I have a horrible case of Empty Nest Syndrome! While I knew I would have to face this eventually, knowing it’s coming doesn’t make it any easier. Christine has been gone to the Governor’s School for the Arts for a full week now and I miss her like crazy.

I know she is having a wonderful time and she is learning all kinds of interesting things about writing and publishing – doesn’t make me feel better.

I know she is making all kinds of new friends – doesn’t make me feel better.

I know she will have a finished chapbook when she comes home – doesn’t make me feel better.

I know she’ll be home before her 17th birthday – doesn’t make me feel better.

I know she calls us every single night – doesn’t make me feel better, okay, maybe makes me feel a little better.

This is the last baby I have at home, and I never dreamed it would be this hard on me, after all, I’m a grown up and I’ve had children in the house for almost 27 years. You would think I would be jumping for joy – but I’m not.

I am so proud of my wonderful daughter and I know she has a bright, productive future to look forward to. I know all little birdies have to grow up and leave the nest, I just wish my last little birdie could stick around a while longer.