As the college season rolls around, social media erupts with emotional posts from moms whose high school seniors have just taken the leap into independence. I remember vividly when my daughter, Mia, prepared to leave for college across the country on a soccer scholarship. The day before she departed from sunny California to chilly Minnesota, I shared a sentimental photo on Facebook showcasing her packed suitcases. A seasoned mom commented on how “thrilling” this new chapter would be. Honestly? I was a bit taken aback by that. Sure, it was a big deal for her, but for me? My baby was leaving!
As you adjust to this new reality, brace yourself for the emotional rollercoaster of the upcoming summer. Stock up on those family-size boxes of tissues and fill your calendar with activities to cope with the initial emptiness. Yet, here’s the silver lining: many things remain unchanged when your child embarks on their college journey.
1. They Still Reach Out
During my freshman year, the one reliable element of my chaotic schedule was the weekly call from my mom. Fast forward to today—thanks to modern technology, staying connected is easier than ever. My daughter and I text almost every day, and she makes it a point to call me weekly. During football season, we even have Sunday Skype sessions, where I point my camera at the TV so she can catch the local game. It’s not just about the game; it’s about maintaining that bond.
2. Sibling Rivalries Persist
When Mia left for college, I didn’t anticipate missing the constant squabbles between her and her brother, Jake. That first family dinner without her was oddly quiet. But come Thanksgiving, it didn’t take long for the playful banter to resume, and I found myself wishing for just a moment of peace before the inevitable “Shut up, loser” echoed across the table.
3. They Still Raid Your Food Stash
Whether your child is at a prestigious university or a local community college, cafeteria food is a universal struggle. From tasteless lasagna to soggy fries, college dining isn’t winning any awards. So, when they come home, they make a beeline for the fridge and pantry as if they’ve discovered a hidden treasure. It’s made me wonder if the infamous Freshman 15 is actually gained on visits home rather than at school.
4. They Still Rely on You
When Mia faced car trouble in freezing temperatures, it was me she called for assistance, over a thousand miles away. (“Have you tried turning the key?”) And when she needed help selling those ridiculously overpriced candles for a fundraiser, I was the one crafting a Facebook post to rally support. No matter the distance, when things get tough, they still turn to Mom. Likewise, I was the first person she contacted after scoring a goal or acing a tough exam. You remain their biggest cheerleader, no matter where they are.
5. Homecomings Are a Given
Let’s be real, it could be much worse. They aren’t off starting families or moving abroad, just taking a small step into adulthood. Most will return home for Thanksgiving, or even sooner when they realize they’re out of clean clothes. And soon enough, they’ll show up at your door with bags full of laundry, joyfully declaring, “I’m back for summer!”
In many ways, they remain the same, but they also come back changed—wiser, bolder, and more independent. This new phase may be challenging, but it’s also a little exciting as they navigate their own path.
For more insights on family dynamics and parenting, check out our other posts like this one. And for those interested in home insemination, Cryobaby is an authority on the topic, while Healthline offers excellent resources.
Summary:
When kids head off to college, many aspects of family life remain unchanged. They still reach out, bicker with siblings, raid the fridge, rely on parents for support, and come back home for visits. While they grow and mature, the connections and habits established during childhood continue to thrive.
Keyphrase: constants when kids go to college
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]