The last outing.

Just had the most wonderful outing with my lads and Mr 'M', as a "family", before the big goodbyes which follow next week and the one after. Today was the only day we were able to get together due to other assorted commitments.

Had a wonderful meal out, lots of banter (no teen huffs n puffs! - and that's just Mr 'M' ), the food was delicious, the waitress had a charming humour and the service was great

Feeling a little squiffy (I don't do desserts, but they do and insisted I had a liqueur coffee - on top of the two of glasses of wine with the meal ... in the middle of the afternoon !!

But, (WARNING: shameful self promotion forthcoming ) one of the sweetest things was said across the table: "Thank you, Mum!" Was this in reference to the outing? The meal? The last minute shopping?

Nopey!

It was said in context of the progressive tasks/'jobs' I've given them during their growing up - those same jobs which have caused so many tantrums and 'attitude' and resentment - because it seems that, by comparison to a number of people they are communicating with via social media, they are going to be the best prepared for the practicalities of leaving home and getting by as an independent adult!

My job is done!

Best start looking for a new one ...

 

Aww

Odd feeling now isn't it. Willow left home for college in Bristol on Wednesday too.

First time without any kids for 26 years.

 

Gulp..........all these babies grown up......

Yes indeed a job well done to all you parents...and good luck to the fledglings

 

Best of British to Willow, Zigs - I'm sure she will have the most amazing time, even though it will be an 'empty' time for you: little perishers do leave a bit of a hole in the heart when they go, don't they

I do know what you mean though: it will be the first time in 34yrs for me that I won't have a 'child' to worry about/work around/think about/train/educate/be whipping boy for during their hormonal/emotional upheavals ... actually, now I come to think about it .. this could signal a life which could become quite tedious (if I let it) I'll adopt the view life will become more "tranquil"

Hope you're coping

 

Ta, and to yours

Taking a bit of getting used to

 

Don't forget you've still got Mr Mum at home

 

Easily overlooked but yes, you are quite right - childish he may be, Lols, but, he's very much married to his job (and himself), so I doubt he will feel the effects of the lads leaving in *quite* the same way or to *quite* the same degree

 

No it isn't. Not if I'm anything to go by anyway. At nearly 40 years old, I still regularly lean on both my parents for all sorts of favours. I have no doubt your lads will be the same.

 

You are such a sweetheart, clue, and I thank you for it.

Being realistic, I doubt I will still be here for my youngest lads when they are nearly 40; even if they may wish it

However, I have always viewed my "parenting" role to have a definitive demarcation line. After that, I only hope to have the role of "friendly advisor": nothing more, nothing less.

 

"M" and Zigs. An emotional time for both of you and it's scary the 'hole' they leave behind when they've gone, it takes a good while to adjust. I think we get so used to doing and even thinking for them through the years it makes it difficult to adjust to the fact they don't really need us anymore. Yesterday my eldest was thirty seven and she still needs a comforting hug and a chat now and again when things aren't going right, we never stop being parents!

Good luck to your boys "M" and Willow too Zigs. Apron strings cut and out into the big wide world!

Right now my emotions are all over the place again. One month today and my youngest will be home for two weeks. I haven't seen her for nearly two and a half years since she emigrated.

 

Thank you, Sheal

OOOOH, how exciting for you!!! I can just imagine how you must be feeling. You'll have a lot of hugs and catching up to do

 

Thanks "M"........I'm counting the days!

 

Ahhh, a lovely offer FC. Although I miss my two younger ones my elder daughter is still here with my grandchildren, they are probably about the same age as your youngster and they keep me on my toes.