We’re tired, cranky, there’s no pacifier in site…and grandma is gone. I promised Ella that we would get out and walk mom through the airport every day leading up to this and the stupid parking lot was full. So, instead of walking her in leisurely, pulling her bags, and hugging her to our heart’s content, we had to use the drop off area. Man, I miss the days when you could sit with someone until the boarding call, give them one last hug, and watch them board the plane. I can’t tell you how much I look forward to my mom’s visits, but I hate this goodbye part.
My husband and I moved across the country from Washington State to Illinois a little less than 3 years ago. I don’t regret the move – it’s been an incredible opportunity and growing experience for our family. At this point in my life, I’ve come to realize that the place you grow up is not the only good option in life and I could probably live and flourish anywhere. The one thing I hate, though, is living so far from my mom.
Mom and I are very close .She is one of my best friends. We talk daily during the week and I always appreciate her insight and love sharing the details of our lives. When she comes to visit, it feels so natural and easy. We simple pick up an ongoing conversation, except this time in person. And we get to go out and do fun things together.
Ella asked me this afternoon why grandma doesn’t live by us. None of my explanations worked for her, really. All she knows is that she adores Grandma and she is already eagerly anticipating our trip home this coming August. So am I. Not only will I get to see my mom, but I’ll also meet a niece and nephew I’ve yet to see and introduce my sisters to Ezra. I can’t wait to wrap my arms around my family and spend some late nights playing games together!
Mom is on the plane home to Seattle now, but I wanted so say Thanks Mom for visiting. Thanks for taking such good care of us. For playing and treating us to so many fun things. Thanks for sharing your birthday with us. We love you. We miss you. We can’t wait to see you again!
And, on a happier, random note, there’s now a new Ellaism from our trip home:
Ella: “Mom, what’s this song called?”
Me: “Your Love is my Drug.”
Ella: “No its’s not.”
Me: “What’s it called then?”
Ella: “Get Up. It’s Not Time Yet.”
Someone better tell Kesha.
I hate living so far from my mom, too. My kids hate it more than I do. Many times they have requested to please go live with her. It’s hard to understand why circumstances often mean we live thousands of miles away. I guess that’s what we get for living in such a huge country! 🙂
I wish my mom wasn’t so far away, either…my in-laws are all here, but that’s not always the kind of comfort one craves…lol! glad you get to see her again soon!
Aw, that must stink! I agree, getting to sit until the boarding call and getting that last hug in was so nice.
I’d struggle if I were away from my mom. We are the best of friends too, and I am SO lucky to live just 2 streets away from her.
I lived a summer away from her (before I got married) and hated it.
Glad you get to go back in August! It will be here before you know it! =)
Awww I’m sorry you didn’t get a chance to have a better goodbye. I cannot stand those airport drop-off goodbyes when everyone else is in such a hurry to move you along.
My mom lives a few states away from me and I only get to see her a couple times a year! It’s really hard and I’m sure it’s going to be even harder when we have a child. (Part of me is hoping that she will decide to move, but I’m not going to hold my breath.)
Luckily August is not too far away! I’m going to see her then too!