The last three weeks have been so stressful. Between the Gold Star “The House That Love Built” project (our extreme home makeover for a local gold star family) and getting the girls ready for school, I’ve been darn near nutso. So by the time that the day rolled around to actually bring them to school– I was relieved.
Let’s get this show on the road, I thought to myself.
The reality of my little girls turning into independent women hadn’t settled in my brain well enough. The “this is it” feeling had been mostly pushed aside because there was just So. Much. To. Do.
And then when it came time to leave– I felt so… Inept. At a loss for words. The girls had to flit off to their first class and just like that– they were gone.
My heart still can’t believe it and my mind can’t process it.
There will be empty bunks tomorrow morning when I go in to wake the children.
Empty seats at the dining room table.
Empty seats in my van.
But my heart, while quivering, is not empty. It’s full.
Full of anticipation for all the friends they’ll make. The experiences they’ll have. The ways they will change and grow. The travels. The relationships. The ways they’ll lead and fail and soar and try. I’ve never been so joyful and sad at the same time. But the joy on their faces makes the pain of missing them so worth it.
I know Ryli and Bliss will make a mark on Stetson University. Just like I know my family will forever look different from this day on. And that’s a good thing. But it doesn’t make it easy.
Marsha Sue Truett says
Praying for you, Ryli, Bliss and your family as they traverse through this next journey.
Lyette Reback says
Marsha, without your prayers we would not be experiencing this new adventure. SO thankful for you my dear.
Amanda Yannotta says
Love you all! Praying for your first day of your new normal. ❤️
Lyette Reback says
So glad you were such a part of the journey! xoxoxo
Kathi Sandburg says
Good luck girls! Such amazing times ahead! And hugs to Mom and Dad-they will do great!
Lyette Reback says
Thank you Kathi! and your sweet note to Liberty was such a perfect gift. Love to you and yours!
Cristy Hernandez-Eckelkamp says
Thanks for posting this Lyette. I was packing my daughters room last night and the tears have not stopped flowing. Excited and sad too.
Lyette Reback says
It’s the best kind of hard to go through. All my best to you mama.
Teri Calhoun says
I haven’t seen you in so long, but I’ll be praying for you!
Lyette Reback says
Thank you Teri!
Kimberly Webb Lague says
Praying for you all. I loved Stetson and know they will totally own it! Stetson is lucky to have them.
Lyette Reback says
Thank you Kimberly!
Lyette Reback says
So glad to have you encouraging this big decision of theirs. Thank you! xoxo
Lyette Reback says
It surely is.