Member-only story
Why I’m Ready for My Son to Return to College
The push and pull of letting go is making my insides hurt
He came home the day before Thanksgiving, and I couldn’t have been happier. He’d been away since August — the longest I’d gone without seeing him since he’d been born. At least remote learning hadn’t ruined his freshman experience. Based on how little he texted or called home, I was confident that he was adjusting well—studying hard, making new friends, and having fun.
As soon as the school announced students would be returning home in November through mid-January, I got busy preparing for my son’s extended stay. Cleaned his room from top to bottom. Filled the pantry with all his favorite snacks. Even replaced his rickety old desk chair with a new gaming recliner so he could be more comfortable playing video games.
He’s our youngest, so yes, he’s spoiled. Plus, I knew what to expect. The time would fly and there may only be a few more occasions when he’s sleeping under our roof for any great length of time. Better make the most of it.
I sensed something was different before the turkey leftovers were put away. He couldn’t clear his plate fast enough and paced around the kitchen with a nervous look upon his face while I loaded the dishwasher.
“Go ahead and get out of…
