The RunDown

Summer is over as we know it around these parts. Sister Sledge and J Smooth started back to school last week, both in new schools. On Friday Big Daddy and I delivered our son, Bama to the steps of the University of Alabama to continue his education. It is hard to believe I have a college student. Last Thursday was a rough day for me emotionally as I helped Bama to pack his belongings. I can't explain why, he and I were both ready for him to go off to college. I understand letting go. I do. It's natural and quite honestly it's time for him to spread his wings and be independent, experience the world and become a man. I have been preparing for this moment since his birth, a little over 19 years ago to the day (Bama turned 19 August 1). But at the same time it's a very unnerving experience. I just pray to God all that my husband and I have tried to teach him for the past 19 years has sunk in, especially since he is now "19 years of age" he thinks he knows it all.
In one ear out the other.
It was hard to lock my door Friday evening, knowing my son was out in the world.
It's hard to not pick up the phone and call to see what he is doing and who he is doing it with.
Yet, I want to give him some freedom and independence, but still I am his mother.
It's a transition phase for all in my family. But I know this is going to be one of the best experiences of his life. He will grow and mature and hopefully mold himself to be someone who will be a fine contributor of our society.

Aside from Bama going to college, it has been a week of other celebrations.
I mentioned that Bama turned 19. Three days afterward, I turned 39.

My friend High Mae teased me, welcoming me to the World of Women "over the hill". She said there would be a ceremony in which I would receive my crown. I embrace it, heck, I have earned it and am proud to be a part of such an elite club!

There was a big celebration on Sunday. Sweet Peg turned ninety years old.

Peg is Big Daddy's grandmother, who I have often discussed. She has dementia/Alzheimer's, as well as cancer and other disabilitating health problems that continues to make living for her difficult. The blessing in this is that she can remember her family, though she cannot recall what she had for lunch, as soon as she puts her fork down. She did not know it was her birthday and was surprised at her family showing up at the nursing home. Considering a month ago hospice called us in to bid her goodbye, today was a blessing. Her only living sibling (out of nine) drove up from south Florida, and her niece came in from Connecticut to be a part of the day. Seeing her surrounded by her loved ones was a gift in and of itself.

I almost feel as though she held out for her birthday and now, what ever happens...happens. She will be ready for it. It really was a beautiful day. A week of celebration.

Now that my children are back in school, I can be more of a contributor to my blog. And yours. I feel I have been so neglectful lately. But now, I am back and hope to be back in the swing of things. Back in the saddle again! I want to take the time to thank you for dropping by. Your comments mean alot to me, that someone would take time....its so kind and for that I am so grateful. So today, I plan to play catch up on my reading and responses.

Before I go though, I wanted to point out my friend Dawn's blog for one of the craftiest, thriftiest, coolest, beachingist (yes I am making up words for it) luau you have ever seen!

I hope you have a great week! Leave me a "roadmap" (aka comment) so I can head to your place!