The Countdown has Started

The College countdown has begun.  AND I am not the one who started it.

A few days ago, my phone buzzed with a Facebook update from my DS and it said "37 days to go!".  Like he is all excited about it or something. 

37 Days until I have to drop my baby off at the dorm.

37 Days until I have to let go.

37 Days until I trust that my DS will make smart decisions.

37 Days until I don't see his happy, smiling face everyday.

Yes, he has every right to be excited.  I would be too were I in his shoes.  18 years old, off to college several states away - on my own.  What an adventure for him! 

But, I am trying to be the happy Mom for him.  I want him to have a great time - learning, making new friends, learning, doing his own wash, learning.  Do you sense a pattern?

How do you send your only child off to college?  The person who helped you grow up?  The one person who has been with you through thick and thin?  Who makes you laugh everyday?  How do you fill that void?  E-Mail?  Text?  Skype?

I honestly don't know.  But I do know I have to let go.  I have to let myself grow up again and be that positive, affirming person that I need to be - this time for me.

Yet, the countdown has started.  For both of us to let go.