Liv (our daughter) left for camp early Monday morning. She'll be gone all week. After one day here are some early observations:
- This is the first time we've not at least talked by phone while she's away or my wife and I are away. I really miss hearing her voice.
- This is the first time we've not at least talked by phone while she's away or my wife and I are away. I'm really enjoying the focused time with my wife.
- I don't know what's going on. I don't know what she's doing, exactly. I don't know what she's hearing, seeing, experiencing. I think there's going to be a lot more of that. That's normal. That's supposed to be. And I hate it.
- With Laura (my wife and I) alone in the house for a week, there are new freedoms. Period. And I like it.
- Missing Olivia is giving me a chance to reflect on what a special girl she is...
- Her "constant" IMing and text messaging could look like a new preoccupation that takes her away from me... or it could be evidence of her relational exploration and great friendships.
- Her desire to be with her friends more, and more, and more could look like she likes me less... or it could be evidence of her God-given development path to more independence.
- Her room left just as she left it (less than tidy) could look like a careless, inattentive housekeeper... or it could be evidence of her uniqueness and random flavor for life that I honestly admire.
There's more... but I have several more days to get through.
Here's to great opportunities for Olivia and great growth ops for both of us!
