Flying

I put it off,
I ignored it,
I avoided it,
I denied it,
And never came to terms with the fact that Shaney was leaving.
It was just too painful for me to do.

Before we left for Provo, she says to me, "Mom, I'm ready!" 
I didn't want to let her go, even though I knew I had to.
And I had to give her the appearance that I'm okay, even though I was not.
I was not ready, but Shaney was!

Our last evening together

I have always prided myself on teaching my kids well and then backing off and letting them spread their wings.  I am not a smother-mother!  But this was MY ultimate test.  Could I back off and let her spread her wings?...I hugged her tight, kissed her face, wiped away a few tears, and said good-bye.  Fly, my darling Shaney.  Spread your wings and fly!