2 Days to Empty Nesting Solo

Yesterday as I followed a drive-thru coffee line that wound around the building I saw a mom walking alongside her little girl. The little one was probably not even 5-years-old yet and mom was acting like a buffer between the drop off of the sidewalk and her daughter. The picture grabbed me as encapsulating good parenting.

Like a guardrail, she was there if her daughter needed her yet giving her the space to walk on her own and learn the boundaries. That protective nature doesn't leave a mom. Once a mom, always a mom and I'm feeling that now more than ever.

On the inside I'm screaming to my son, "Don't get on that Army bus!" On the outside, I'm just walking alongside knowing my role has changed. I'm to be a supporter, a cheerleader, a prayer warrior, a mom of a grown and flown child. Shout out to my friend and wise Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Joy Makela for helping me to see that and segue into that space!

This morning, I was taking my early ride to the grocery store to beat out all the other shoppers. I looked down into the cup holder of my SUV and there was a pair of toenail clippers I've been looking for for the last five months. Yeah, the exact amount of time since my son came home. On the floorboard laid a gallon bag he used yesterday to catch the flying nails as he clipped. His respectful way of not getting the clippings in my vehicle. Weird? Maybe. I don't care.

I smiled with warmth. Another trace that he had been in my world. I mentally noted that I would leave the clippers and empty then tuck away the bag in the SUV for next time. Only I have no idea when that will be. But I will be one praying Momma ensuring there will be a next time.