Left

I, at the very least, expected a single tear.
Maybe a hug that lasted a bit longer than normal.
A smile that, only a Mom would notice, was on the verge of.....

Anything....
Something......
alas,
Nothing.

Nothing......
But.........
The anticipation was in the air.
The excitement was loud.
The giddiness was contagious.

She was ready.
Hand in hand she walked with her best cousin.
Smiling and
Laughing and
Plotting and
Planning and
Singing and
Dancing and
Skipping and.....
Just being little and happy!

I, on the other hand, was not. I thought I was. We talked for hours about being away at camp. We talked about the fun she would have and all the friends she will make and the horses she will ride and the hikes and art and games and food and all things "girl camp!" I half hoped that there would be any hesitation in her so that I could comfort her fears away. A little worry or maybe some skepticism. (they only issue we had was whether there were open showers or individual ones)

Instead, she bolted for the BIG bus and never looked back. Ready for the week that awaits!

While I choked back a sob.
I think I was ready to faint.

I just put my little girl on a very BIG bus, for outdoor explorer camp. For the next 6 days and 5 nights. I can only think I have lost my mind. I watched all the other parents, including my own sister, drive away even before the bus left the lot. We had to wait until the bus left the lot... and even then, I was scanning the freeway to make sure that they made it all 500 feet to the entrance.

I can't call the little darling and I can't text her. We can write letters and mail them off, the old fashioned way. We also get to email each other, but not directly to one another. I am sure she will have a blast and we will keep busy as well. I just know that I am already missing the little spitfire that keeps the noise level and blood pressure .... waaaaay too high, around this house!!!!!

6 days and 5 nights ...... I CAN DO THIS!