Today, I sit here with my thoughts about my sweet child and what it’s like as a mom or parent to start letting go of your child so that they can become the person they are destined to be, to allow them room to follow their own path.
Check out my “Follow Your Own Path” notebook here… https://amzn.to/3YlfMsn
My son graduated from high school last year (2023). To celebrate, he went on his first getaway with his friends to Ocean City. Now, I didn’t have much issue with this because we have been there quite a few times, there is family in that area, and it’s relatively close to home. My only real concern was whether his car would make it or not. While he was there, he would check in and send a picture or two.
Fast-forward to 2024. My son spent the year completing his internship as a Lineman with a local powerline company. After his internship was completed, he had time to go on a vacation. He and his friends decided on Ft. Lauderdale this time, and they were driving. This time, he had a brand-new car, so I didn’t worry about that, and we also have friends and family in that area if needed. He updated me on his travels and sent pictures. Again, all was well.
Around August, my son came to me and said he wanted to take his first SOLO trip. That wasn’t the worst of it-he wanted to go to Paris! His first solo trip and he wanted to go out of the country. Every ounce of the mom in me was saying “HECK NO”! So, I asked my million questions (why, where, what, when, etc.). I asked if he had checked into any issues in that area and he replied “No, but he will be fine.” So, of course, what is a mom to do? She checks the local news in Paris to see if there are any issues at present. I asked, “Don’t you want to take someone with you?” He replies, “No, Mom. I just want to see the Eiffel Tower and stay for a couple of days.” So, after all of my questions, the adventurist inside of me took over and was like ok, let’s help you plan this trip. We talked about flights, taxi vs. Uber vs. rental, where to stay, and proximity of sights to places to stay. We looked up a few French phrases and mentioned a few things he should try or sights to see while he was there. I was truly excited for him!