A Mother’s Heart

My Charlie just texted me that she is boarding the plane now that will take her home. I cried when I dropped her off at the departure gate. And I am crying now.

A mother’s heart wants the best for her children. She thinks about this all through those tough, but amazing nurturing years. And she thinks about the time when they will eventually leave her arms…and her home. But I’m not sure she truly grasps the realty of it because she’s living in the moment. I surely did not.

When my oldest daughter moved 4 hours away, twelve years ago, well…that was one of the worst days of my life. I ran hard at the park after she drove away. It was 103 degrees. I ran three plus miles until I ended up collapsing on the cold concrete floor of the park bathroom. I should have called for help but I just laid there until my body cooled off and I could get up on my own. Twelve years later, it’s still so very hard to say goodbye after a visit.

After I dropped my Charlie off at the airport, I broke down. Yes, while driving. My youngest daughter gently held onto my arm.

I continued onto Plainfield to make a quick stop. It was here I became even more emotional as I recalled the years I brought my four youngest children here to shop. We had so much fun together! Tonight, I just want my kids back. Change is difficult for me. I wasn’t quite ready for my littles to grow up and leave even though, at the time, I wondered if and when they would ever grow up. But I’ve learned so much over the past few years. I learned that I didn’t cherish enough every-single-minute with my little ones when they were home.

A mother’s heart is strong yet can break rather easily. Memories often do that. Goodbyes, though, are a surety that her heart will shatter.

She just never believed that this day would come.

I miss my Charlie tonight.

A mother’s heart….♥️ 💔

Andi