Wednesday, September 22, 2010

{2 more sleeps....}

only 2 more sleeps
before
my middle joy
miss molly
flies over the ocean blue
to attend college in
England



we spent all night packing....
crying............................
repacking....
c
r
y
i
n
g
running to buy a larger suitcase...
repacking.....
laughing...............................
crying..........................................................
adding stuff.....removing stuff.....laughing....crying.....repeat.....
{*sigh*}

77 comments:

Randi Troxell said...

oh my!
i would cry too.. i will be thinking of you!!!

Unknown said...

Oh, Koralee, what a beautiful adventure she will have in Europe. God protect her & guide her ...

May your heart travel with her.

Have a great week ~
TTFN ~Hugs, Marydon

Unknown said...

...Best Wishes Middle One....

Anonymous said...

She looks so young!
I hope it is university and not high school. I would ball my eyes out!

Celestial Charms said...

Hi Koralee,
Wishing your daughter the very best. What an awesome adventure. I'll keep you in my thoughts too. It can't be easy, but with blessings sent your way, it can be easier. :)
Maureen

Magpie's Mumblings said...

Oh my - how wonderful/sad/thrilling - all sorts of emotions all rolled into one. It will be hard for you both, but so very exciting too. You'll just have to make a trip to visit!

Anonymous said...

I love the image of the day...the textured stockings and dainty shoes...is that Molly too?
Wishing her the very best and hopes of a good education and wonderful adventures...not to mention priceless memories...
Bless you Bluebird Mama!!!

HUGS ~victoria~

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

KORALEE! WHAT? You are so busy....when do you teach? Are you a substitute? How are you juggling all of this? :) Thank you for visiting me! Yes, I am so sorry that we missed each other, but by the looks of it, it would have been impossible for you to come to my house....I saw that you got a picture with Suzanne from Holly and Privet! I will be seeing her in November for tea! And, you look so beautiful in your photos and your daughter is darling! ENGLAND? Oh dear...across the big pond! BLESSINGS TO YOU DEAR ONE! Anita

sarah-jane down the lane said...

Don't worry about a thing we shall take good care of her over here in Blighty. The main thing is to tune into our naughty subversive sense of humour and all will be well!

Seriously, if she ever needs any help you know where I am!

Love Sarah x

Anonymous said...

oh that definatly would be a happy sad situation for me.Mine would be more like bawling laughing bawling bawling ha.

Oh I wish her the best.She will be fine and what an experience.I think I should say I wish you the best too.;)

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

All the best to Molly as she begins this new and exciting chapter in her life.

How wonderful that you were able to attend a Creative Connection event. I am finding it so hard to keep up with work and school and home life at the moment. There certainly isn't any creativity going on. :/

Have a great rest of the week! :) Tammy

angela said...

What an exciting time in life!! It must be really hard seeing her go, but all the more reason to go visit, I suppose :) I hope you are able to find joy and peace in all of this!

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Heart touching post today. Don't forget to tell your sweet pea to NOT find the Love of her Life right there in England ;)
Fortunately we have Skype these days. I believe Mr. Skype will become your best friend for the next couple of months. I suppose Molly will only stay a couple of months.. All the best to your Middle JOY, I'm wishing Molly bunches of wonderful moments and experiences!
Have a happy Middle of the week, sweet friend xxxxx

Sue Jack said...

Bittersweet post, Koralee.....
I know you must have a hundred feelings swimming around in your heart right now:
"I'm so happy for her to have this opportunity to experience what school is like another country...." :)
"But wait....she won't be here for me to see at the drop of a hat!!! How will I give her a hug and kiss when there's an ocean between us???":(
"England will be gorgeous this time of year and she will absolutely love exploring her new surroundings!" :)
"Who will she see when she gets sick?" :(
"She'll make lots of new friends....some even for a lifetime...." :)
"What happens if she gets homesick??" :(
"This is a chance of a lifetime! Show her how proud and confident I am of her!" :)
Oh, I so dread being in your shoes....my daughters are 10 and 13.
These are the things that pull on a mother's heartstrings that no amount of words or soothing will help. Just trust that you and her dad have given her all the "tools" she needs to enjoy her adventure, be safe and make good decisions! Plus, you get to visit England vicariously through her.....
Relax, Mom....everything will be fine! She's just "spreading her wings".

Side note: A friend and I have started a group for our 5th grade daughters and their mothers....it is called "Spread Your Wings". It is to encourage trust and relationship building between mothers and their daughters, and to build self-esteem and confidence in our daughters. It has been fun....but now that I read your post, I realize that we are only preparing ourselves and them for this exact day in our lives....
Here is a link to the blog I write for it:
http://spreadyourwingso.blogspot.com/
Tell Molly we wish her Godspeed....and oodles of wonderful adventures!

Sue

fernandflora said...

Oh! How bittersweet. I cried my eyes out when my mom took me to college an hour from home! Thinking of both of you as she heads to England! xo xo xo

Laura S. said...

Wow, what an amazing experience she'll have! I know you'll miss each other. I cried for days when I went to college only two hours away! But I'm a homebody so I get homesick very easily. Studying abroad would've been awesome, but I don't think I could've done it. Cheers to your daughter for being so brave and ready for adventure!

hilary@oldhousetruelove said...

awe... made me fast forward to the day when my birdies will leave the nest. :( Best wishes to your middle joy.

Blondie's Journal said...

She is going to have the time of her life and you will adjust slowly. My daughter didn't cross an ocean, but it felt like that in my heart. Try getting Skype on your computer...it's great!

xoxo
Jane

Dawn said...

Oh my!
Another ``season`` of change.
Bittersweet.
Hugs to you and her....I can only imagine what that day will be like when it comes here....
Hugs
Lots of them.

Pamela said...

OH You are all so brave!!! Good luck and much blessings to Miss Molly!
I dread the day my boy goes off...
Pamela xo

Georgia said...

No offence to her choice but I am english and uni is crap here. Rubbish weather, boring uni life, poor quality student halls. No uni spirit etc...

I would kill to attend college in America. (ask her if she fancies swapping with me, I go to a scottish uni if she's interested) :P

xxxxx

Suz said...

Dear Koralee,
We live in the Midwest. My Katie went to college at Sarah Lawrence. Then she came home for a year. Then she went and lived in LA. Now she is not only back, she is back in the house! A little boomerang kid! I love having her here about ninety-five percent of the time!
Hugs,
Suz

Unknown said...

OH!!!! I love these pictures!!!! Wow, England? What will she be studying?

This will be quite an adventure for her and I'm sure she will love it ... but so hard for the mama! I cried my eyes out when I sent my third daughter off to college - I didn't think I could stand it!

Good luck with the change ... they say change is "good". Sometimes, I'm not so sure. xoxo

Elizabeth said...

ohhh....my daughter is completing her applications for college for next fall. don't make me weep ;)

Ana Degenaar said...

This is lovely! I am going to the beach in to more sleeps!

Debby said...

Such a wonderful experience for your daughter. I would cry as well. I did when mine kids went to college in the states.

BonjourRomance said...

Bonjour Koralee,
DOn't worry, my friend, she will be fine. I am certain she has a good head on her shoulders with a good Mom like you. It is hard to be apart, I will be thinking of you both. Take care and safe travels to your daughter!
Mimi

Anonymous said...

Koralee, do I ever understand. When my daughter Megan moved to Scotland for 4 years with a missions organization it was one of the hardest seasons of my life. But you have much to be proud of as a mom, and you can go and visit her in the charming UK. We prayed for Megan daily and missed her so much. When she came back (key words: came back :-) we had an even closer mother-daughter relationship. Prayers and hugs xoxo
Susan Baldwin

Susan Houseman said...

Oh, she going to England, how wonderful and sad all at the same time. Next year my boys leave for college, don't know where yet. This must one of the hardest things to do as a mother, letting go. susan xo

Martina said...

Hey Koralee, how long will your girl be away? Oh, it's so hard to let your kids fly of. Mine are both still at home, but i dread the time when they won't. But then, it's all part of the circle game! I'm sure your girl with have a great time!

Faded Plains said...

Ahhh...just thinking about this puts tears in my eyes. It'll be such an adventure for her...wishing her all the best.

Sewn With Grace said...

Oh Koralee, God bless you both! So thankful for cell phones that keep us close!

It's me said...

O my...you middle one is no longer a kid....she flys out into the real world mom...an England......close to me.......o my..you shall miss her......big huge hug from me.....

Elizabeth said...

Sending all best wishes your daughters way!
England how very exciting! Yes, I would be doing lots of crying too!
Many Blessings.....
Elizabeth

Martha said...

Oh Sweet Koralee...you have fabulous pictures every single time I visit...oh my goodness:)

How exciting at the same of time sadness because I know are so close to your family
xo, peace, comfort, excitement your way as she flies off

birdie blue said...

i can't imagine how hard it must be to send a daughter overseas...i'll be thinking of you in the next few days.

xo
~molly

Maria said...

Hi Koralee!
This is AWESOME for Molly ~ and...
I know such mixed emotions for those left behind.
I did this to my parents too :o)
I studied in France for a semester... back then = no computer = no emailing, no facebook, no blogs, no skyping {I saw Saskia's comment - Skype is wonderful, even though Amanda is only a few hours away... it's very comforting}
---oh and back then, phone calls were soooo expensive! I only called home a handful of times. I was dating Chris, and we had to wait at least a week for mail to go one way!
{two weeks for an answer to a question!}

Oh Koralee, I've been wondering where Molly is going to college... thinking of your heart right now...
~ Remembering though, that her joys will be your joys too!
May she have safety always.
I know she will have lifelong memories~ and will return so much richer ~
love,
Maria
ps Will she be there for a year/semester or all of undergraduate?

Draffin Bears said...

Hi Koralee,

Oh I know the feeling, when our daughter went over to London, at the airport there were big tears and hugs all round.
Wishing Miss Molly the very best time in London, I know she will be fine and enjoy it.
You will need to get Skype and you can talk and see her sweet face everyday. That helped us and Victoria did not feel so far away.

Sending hugs
Carolyn

Kelly said...

Wishing your middle joy lots of love and wishes for a good journey!
Sending you hugs!!! Tell her she is going to miss home!!! Its just not the same here xxxx

Vintage Home said...

..oh wow...at least yours would let you cry!...mine wouldn't allow it!...I hear that it is wonderful there ...amazing pictures to come for sure!

Rizzi said...

MY DEAR KORALEE,
YOUR HEART MUST BE BREAKING, AND YET I KNOW YOU ARE HAPPY FOR HER AT THE SAME TIME.
EVERYONE THINKS ITS HARD TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR KIDS WHEN THEY ARE BABIES, BUT....IT'S NOT.......ITS WHEN YOU HAVE TO LET THEM GO.....I'VE BEEN THROUGH IT, BUT LIFE GOES ON AND IT DOES GET BETTER. I WILL KEEP MOLLY IN MY PRAYERS.
TAKE CARE, RIZZI

Sue said...

Ooo...far away. It is so hard isn't it. Mine wasn't nearly that far during her college years (although she rarely came home) but now that she is 1000 miles away and gets home only once a year...I'm amazed at how we stand it. We go to her 2 or 3 times a year and thank goodness for cellphones. We talk several times a day.

Good luck to your daughter and to you!

NicNacManiac said...

Oh my goodness Koralee,
Such a wonderous adventure she is about to embark on as well as yourself....learning to communicate from afar...at least with today's technology you will feel as though you are never too far away!! That great big body of water will seem like a stream!!
Sweet thoughts and prayers for you both!! xOxO

Hearts Turned said...

Oh, my! I've been where you are right now, Koralee--my oldest daughter is now a Junior in college far away from me...I've had many of those packing nights...wishing her wonderful success in school, and wishing her mother peace and joy in watching her accomplishments...

Julie

laurie -magpie ethel said...

I love it that you said in "two more sleeps" - we use that same phrase that we learned in preschool. My oldest just left for college last week and I kept saying how many more sleeps to him as well! Congrats to Molly and good luck to you...go easy on those tears.

Tricia said...

Oh...you poor thing! That would be hard, but just think how wonderful it will be for her AND you can go visit her :)

Simple Home said...

Oh my dear, I think England just got alot closer for you :-) We are thrilled for them to have adventures of their own, but it isn't easy to be the mama sometimes, is it?
I'll be praying for you both :-)
Blessings,
Marcia

Kellie Collis said...

It can really be sad. Just think of the opportunities she's going to have. It's time for her to fly! Kellie xx

paperbird said...

What a sweet blessing for your daughter Koralee- and what an amazing journey this will be for her. You raised her to be brave and strong- watch her soar!

Geisslein said...

I would cry too....such a lovely post! wish her all the luck and a very happy time!

bellaboo said...

My sister's two eldest went to Uni this week.It's hard when they go off into the big wide world.Thank goodness,with the technology we have now,it's easier to keep in touch.I hope she has a wonderful time! :o)

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Koralee! What a great schedule you have! You know, I would love to look into substituting one day...as I get older, as tough as I am, I think I wouldn't mine NOT having my own classroom, but rather substitute. But your life is still quite busy, but at least you have such a lovely family to attend to!!!! They are all just gorgeous! Have a great day my sweet friend! Anita

Unknown said...

Oh Koralee, such a sweet post! Wishing your middle one all the best, with love x

erin's art and gardens said...

just like the first day of fall...it's all so exciting AND bittersweet. best wishes to your darling daughter and her mommy too.

francis said...

We didn't know all of this when our babies were born . That's the miracle of life . We get to love them and love them and love them and keep them very close for a long time . And than they go on their own journey through life but they leave us with so many many wonderful memories ....... Do remember the memories sweet Koralee . And .... we are ALL here FOR YOU !

Rosie said...

Oh dearest what a great experience for your Molly~Girl...A time of huge expectations...A time for her to spread her wings...and a time to make use of all the wonderful lessons you have instilled in her. Sending you, my dear friend, a tender HUG...she will be home in no time at all, with MANY stories to tell....xoxox...Rosie

Marilyn Miller said...

Take care and hugs! We rejoice in our children's adventures, but at the same time cry for the missing and holding our breathe for their success.

Gloria said...

(((((Dear Koralee)))))) hugs to you. Your sweet Miss Molly will have many great adventures in England learning and exploring her new world. And...maybe mom can go exploring with her when visiting?? :) England!!! WOW!!! That is so awesome!! What a great opportunity for her! Congrats to her...:)
Saying a prayer for a safe journey and comfort for your hearts as you miss her.
xoxo Gloria @}~`}~~~

Jeanne said...

Oh how exciting for Miss Molly. I know you will miss each other immensely, but what a wonderful opportunity for her!
xo
jeanne

Poppies and Sunshine said...

What a great adventure your daughter is about to go on. But, I can only imagine how much missing will go on! I hope she has safe travels and that she enjoys school there!

Stephanie Suzanne Designs said...

Hi Koralee,

Oh my! How exciting for your Miss Molly...what school will she attend? or what city?....I'm a nosie posie I know! I just think this is too cool that's she's going to England.

I'm headed to your Creative Connection post next! I squealed like a little girl when I visited my friend Karen Valentine and read that you and her were roomies..how cool is that!

Hugs,
Stephanie ♥

LuLu said...

My heart goes out to you... a mother's heart is so tender. What an amazing experience for you daughter... so exciting for here. Wishing her many blessings and you comfort knowing you raised a wonderful young lady,
xo,
LuLu

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

Oh, my dear friend! What a wonderful adventure for your precious middle joy! ANd what a bittersweet time for you. As good mothers we must let them fly on their own wings, while it breaks our hearts! I know... I share in your great joy and tears!
Aren't you glad you have this wonderful blog that she can go to to find a little touch of her Mom?
I will pray for her safe travels and life.
xo Yvonne

beachvintage.com said...

Oh dear Koralee, this is one of those moments in life. Have you seen "It's Complicated" when Merryl Streep is left alone when her daughter moves away for college? If not, you MUST watch.

Susan said...

What an exciting adventure for your sweet Molly!
Have you purchased your ticket to travel there for a visit yet?
Life brings so many changes...and they happen so fast, don't they?
I'm thinking I must get a passport and see a little bit more of this world myself!!
Prayers for safe travel, easy transition, and a wonderful college experience for Molly and prayers for you too as your little bluebird leaves the nest! :)
Blessings!

Swoon with Deb Hodge said...

Oh Koralee,
You must be so proud of her :-)
She is beautiful, just like her mother.
Love,
Deb

NENSA MOON said...

Oh Koralee,
finally this moment came to you... I definitely know how your feeling.. how it hard... but I hope you'll strong and high in spirit...Your beautiful daughter will doing fine in college.

I wish all the best to you and your family.
God bless you!
hugs,
nensa

Barbara said...

I know, Koralee. My oldest went to Paris. But there is a really great side: I went to visit her as much as I could! So can you.
The world is so much smaller now and there is always Skype. You can see her and talk to her everyday via your computer.
She will have a wonderful adventure and I wish her the very best experience.

Jacqueline @ HOME said...

Oh Koralee,
I feel for you....it was bad enough when our children went to university and they stayed in England, although our son had a year in Germany for his degree so I know how you feel.
Pack lots of jumpers, unbrellas and a raincoat as it's been raining for the last two days !! ....... but, that could all change tomorrow. Where is she going to college ?
I know that you are happy for your daughter and life will get back to a routine. She will be fine and will have the best time. XXXX

Jacqueline @ HOME said...

P.S. Don't take any notice to what Georgia said.....it all depends on which university she is going to. It doesn't matter what country you study in, I'm sure their are some not so good ones everywhere. The United Kingdom is famous for it's education and people come from far and wide to study here. Our children loved it and had the time of their life.....and they got a degree as well ....they didn't JUST party !!!!
As others have said, it is a great adventure for her and she will love it. Not only did our son go away for a year but our daughter went around the world for a year and I didn't see her for a whole year !! I know just how you feel but, it's fine and with the internet it's so easy to keep in touch, isn't it ?
OK, our weather isn't always the best, although it's far better that people make out but, there are lots of other pluses. Please keep us updated on how she is getting on won't you Koralee. XXXX

GardenOfDaisies said...

OH Koralee, What an exciting adventure for Mollly!! But this is one of those bittersweet moments... You are excited and sad all at the same time. "Please don't grow up!" and "I'm so proud of the young woman you have become!" all at the same time. I've sent two off to college. None so far as yours is going, but our our oldest is thinking of doing international volunteer work for a year post graduation. And I certainly know the meaning of "far", having moved os as a kid. Skype and e-mail are wonderful tools to help you stay close. Hugs to you friend.

Libbie said...

WOW!!! I wasn't expecting that! I can't imagine all the crying & laughing & all that is going through your head & heart Koralee! What a brave gril you have raised & I am sure being your daughter she will excel in all she does! I will try to remmeber to pray often for you & her these next few days! & please let us all know how she does when she gets there!

Simply Mel {Reverie} said...

Dearest Koralee ~

I know I have years until the crumb leaves the nest, but I still understand what you are going through...such excitement for her new adventure, but such happy tears of letting her go! Thinking of you my dear sweet friend!
Bisous,
Melissa

Unknown said...

what a big moment for you both. i will keep you all in my prayers. i can only imagine the excitement for her, you are a good momma and she is ready to soar! i can only imagine when mine goes off to school, i'm sure lots of tears too!! big hugs, susan

Monica said...

Oh, I know how hard this must be for both of you :( Just think though how wonderful today's technology is, and you can easily keep in touch any time of day :) I'll be thinking of you, and try and keep your spirits bright :)

Pansy Cottage Girl said...

I know how hard that is. I never cried so hard as I did the night I left my daughter's dorm until the day she married the love of her life. Thank goodness for waterproof makeup!

DaShannon said...

just think of all the experiences! and how much closer she will feel to you being able to see your blog and send you pictures that will inspire you both!