It was supposed to be perfect. The night before, I had rehearsed every single word—actually, it was more like the early morning of drop-off day. At 2:19 a.m., I envisioned standing before my oldest daughter, arms outstretched like a serene statue, ready to say all the right things. I imagined gently smoothing her hair, our eyes locking as I uttered, “My beautiful girl, we’re so proud of you. You’re going to thrive this year. We love you dearly!”
We would share a brief but heartfelt hug, the kind that seals the moment in time. I would whisper, “Goodbye, my darling!” and then turn away, walking confidently to our minivan without a single glance back—just like a scene from a movie.
But reality had other plans. The day of the college drop-off unfolded differently. As we approached the car, I realized this was it: the moment of separation. I meant to offer her a steady dose of love and wisdom, but what burst forth instead sounded more like a frantic list of survival tips:
“Use single-ply toilet paper; double-ply clogs the toilet. Make sure to sleep enough or you’ll feel low. Smile back at people so they think you’re happy! And for heaven’s sake, don’t put your drinking cups mouth side down on the counter—germs everywhere! Wash your hands, please; I’ve seen too much.”
She tried to step back for air as I clung to her like a life vest.
But did that stop my flood of advice? Absolutely not. I shouted like I was back in the days of babysitters and bedtime stories.
“Don’t lend money! Look over your shoulder when you walk home at night—no earbuds! Eat protein; it’ll help your mood. And always shower—it’s a miracle worker! A new shirt works wonders too; just text me if you need one. Also, good posture and a nice haircut can change your day!”
Then I flung myself into her arms, reminiscent of the way she’d cling to me in her baby bathtub when she was just a few months old.
I couldn’t stop there. My voice muffled against her shoulder, I blurted out: “Read food labels! Take your vitamins! Change your toothbrush when it gets worn out! Drink water! Keep a hat in your backpack—earmuffs aren’t enough. And always have an umbrella; you never know when Wisconsin’s weather will surprise you. Move around every hour! If you think you need to go to the health clinic, don’t hesitate—just go!”
I swallowed the lump in my throat, feeling like a relentless drill sergeant. I was on a mission, and suddenly I was shouting about Purell and the dangers of wet socks, while also reminding her to see some greenery every day—because, yes, scurvy is a thing!
All the while, my grand send-off speech was slipping away. I knew I had one last chance to say something profound, so I squared my shoulders, ready to impart my heartfelt wisdom. Instead, what came out was a strangled croak, and then the tears started flowing—rivers, waterfalls, an entire ocean.
I lunged back towards her, soaking her shirt with my tears while desperately trying to hold on, feeling like I was about to float away.
“Mom,” she asked, genuinely confused, “Why are you crying?”
Her simple question hit me hard, and I buried my face in her neck. I wanted to convey how much I needed her to heed all the advice I had frantically thrown at her. I couldn’t be there to ensure her safety anymore, and I needed her to take charge of her life, to listen to my ramblings about self-care and caution.
This beautiful girl, the one we’re so proud of, the one destined for greatness, is stepping into a world where she must navigate on her own. If only there were a way for her to translate my frantic warnings into something clear, like, “Your mom loves you so much that she turns into a hot mess when it’s time to let go.”
For more on navigating life changes and starting new chapters, check out this resource on intrauterine insemination. And if you’re looking for guidance on family planning, don’t miss this post from Make a Mom, an authority on the topic.
In summary, the college drop-off is an emotional rollercoaster filled with a mix of pride, fear, and unconditional love—a moment when all the lessons and advice you’ve given suddenly spill out in a chaotic, heartfelt farewell.
Keyphrase: College Drop-Off Emotions
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