Stretching ones wings...

I am a very protective momma...perhaps too protective at times, but I am (besides hubby) the only one that loves my children more then life itself. I try to protect them from the evils of the world and slowly acclimate them to the world via life lessons, conversations and small amounts of protected exposure to the crap of life.

My oldest will be 13 this May...I finally feel relaxed in my parenting him, he's responsible, smart and he gets it...life that is. We have entered a "New Season" with parenting...and it feels great.

Today, I have snipped a piece of the'ol apron string and we (his father and I) are allowing him to stretch his wings and attend an overnight puppet trip. He will board the church bus...ride to Prattville, Alabama...be responsible for himself, his things, his money and his food purchasing power...yes, life is good for my sweet boy...he's growing up!

What tugged at my heart was seeing big brother play a game with little sis before leaving...they didn't get to finish, but he told her they'd play again on Sunday. It's the little things that mean the most...and seeing them get along certainly means the world to this momma!


Loading the car with his goofy self...


The dreaded embarrassing parental goodbyes...


More "forced" parental goodbyes!


Our fabulous children's minister "Mr. Jack", giving the rules of the road and praying over the group.


Loaded and ready to roll with the infamous "Mr. Bill" in the drivers seat...


...and they're off...there goes my boy!


Not a tear spilled over...but the threat was certainly there as a misty eyed momma watched her baby boy roll away. I felt as if I'd dropped my baby off at Kindergarten for the very first time. I'm sure it gets easier...doesn't it?

Update...12:00 midnight:
Andrew called to let me know they'd just arrived at the hotel. The trip was good, but the bus had some "water in the gas issues" (said that Mr. Jack doesn't like the bus), but has been remedied (boy have we been there and done that before!). They ate at McDonald's...he bought a puppet with the money he'd saved (a snake one) and he was sleeping on the floor (his choice) and got treats (Mr. Jack brought Candy). He doesn't plan on showering although I "forced" him to bring his shampoo even though he "told" me he probably wouldn't shower. They have to get up at 6:00 a.m. to go back to the puppet competition...then I got a quick "Bye Mom"...lol.

Update...Saturday, 9:00 p.m.
Andrew's home...healthy, happy and full of stories. He had a great time and I'm sure will most certainly look forward to future trips.

I survived and enjoyed some much needed one on one with Kaitlyn.

Yes...we definitely are in a new season of life...one of letting go and allowing to grow. Life is good!