Hurry Up and Move Out! Now, Get Back Home!!!

I am sitting at the computer twiddling my thumbs, thinking about what I still need to prepare, trying to keep my mind occupied,  anxiously awaiting my daughter's return!

My oldest daughter, a Navy Petty Officer, returns today for two weeks. My personal reactions to her return have startled me, yet made me realize how much my child means to me. When she lived here, we had the usual fights and arguments all parents have with their young adults still at home. But now? She has not been home in almost two years and I can't wait to see her!

I am so proud of my daughter! She went out into the world to seek her fortune. She found a wonderful husband and moved on. She's worked hard and continues to work to find her future. In some ways, I am jealous of her opportunities.

But now? The prodigal child returns.

I've been cleaning the house, finishing some woodworking projects, and working on some remodeling projects because I realized that I want to show her what we have accomplished, too.

I realized that, after so many years, I now want her to be proud of me, as well. That's a switch. For so long, she sought MY approval, and now I work to gain hers. I want her to know that I am okay without her, though I miss her every day. But I also want her to be proud of her roots... me.

For six years, it was just the two of us... Me and Charli against the world. Then, we added Aly to our little duo. So we became a trio for four more years ... a total of ten years. We enjoyed each other, fought with each other,  celebrated accomplishments together and watched each other grow physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

For ten years, it was just us. We became a very close little family. I hope that I taught her independence and the ability to think outside-the-box. (Box? What box?) I hope that I taught her to fend for herself when needed, but know when it's necessary to seek assistance. I hope that I taught her to always strive to be a woman she can be proud of, in and of herself. I hope I taught her many things.

But most of all, I hope that I taught her that I love her and I am so very proud of her.

Welcome home, Charli!