I stand behind the ironing board affixing labels to socks
and watch
you weave Stampy Cat from yellow bands
The knot in my throat
grows
An adventure looms
For each of us
Soon to camp
One month away
Your first time
Reminders simmer
Stay in groups. Be modest. Don’t let anyone take advantage.
Use your voice
Use soap
Use a tissue
Never spoken
Instead,
A mother’s mantra
“I love you. I’m proud. Have fun.”
We drive the twisted parkway
Duffle in trunk
You stare beyond the glass
Wondering
Raindrops camouflage my tears
Focus. Don’t dawdle. Clean up.
Take a risk
Trim those nails
Try the baked ziti
“I love you. I’m proud. Have fun.”
I stuff sheets into a top bunk
You flip cards with new mates
throw a glance
and disappear with the pack
It’s almost time
Brush your teeth. Wear glasses. Spray for bugs.
Be organized
Be flexible
Be you
“I love you. I’m proud. Have fun.”
A kiss good-bye
Stay a boy forever
One more squeeze
Experience it all
“I love you. I’m proud. Have fun.”
Red Said What? 
Everyone mother’s bittersweet experience of gently pushing our kids out of the nest while wishing we could hang on to them.
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Absolutely. Beautifully said.
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My eyes became misty as I read your post. I think you are tremendously brave to send him off on his own. And so very smart to keep to your mantra.
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A seriously perfect read for the first week of camp! Just lovely.
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You need to supply a tissue dispenser with this one Jen!
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The first time’s always a challenge. I love you. I’m proud. Have fun.
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I couldn’t have said it better myself……perfect, Donna!
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That’s exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you, Donna :-).
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