Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Our "Big Guy" Has Left the Nest


It was a happy and sad day for the mama here at "Stress is the New Black". Happy because Justin is doing what I raised him to do, which is to become independent and make his own life. Sad because this day has come and it is much easier to work towards that goal than to live it.

Our son moved out today...this time it should be for good. He moved out 5 years ago to go to college about 5 hours away from home. He moved back; worked for awhile and then started law school. He has finished his first year, gotten engaged and moved out all in a two month period...oh my goodness; how did that happen? I know it sounds cliche but "Where did the time go?" When did our son, who I remember so vividly at the exact same age as his younger siblings (3) get to be a all grown up? I know logically that he is but my heart still has not caught up with my head, so here I am caught between tears and smiles all day. I must honestly admit that there have been more tears than smiles but I do know that each day it will get a bit easier. I learned that lesson well when he left for college and the house was *so empty* Now I have Katie Starr and Ethan to keep me occupied, focused and my heart full.

I must pause at this juncture and thank Marc for helping me to raise Justin from the age of 14. Marc became a father for the first time to a 14 year old; how brave is that? He handled it so beautifully, never forcing the relationship and being there whenever and for whatever he was needed for. Justin and I both love you Marc.

Thank you to my Mom and Pop, who have always played a very important role in Justin's life. You have been a wonderful Nana and Papa to him. He adores you both.

My Justin is grown and gone. I may have tears in my eyes for a few days but I have joy in my heart and I could not be any prouder. I love you Mr. J.

9 comments:

Vivian M said...

He is not gone, not really. And he will be back, even if only for visits.
You should be very proud, not just of your son, but of yourself. You are an inspiration to me, and I think in between the tears you should take a moment or two to pat yourself on the back as well!
Good thing I am not there, you always manage to make me cry. I think I will have as hard of a time when our turn comes (hopefully not for a loooong time!).
Huge hugs dear friend!

Unknown said...

WOW Lori! I think it's wonderful that Justin is moving out- but can understand how hard it must be to let him go. I still get misty eyed when the Ogre starts the new school year. (this year is high school) He will come home - my Dad says they always come back.
There will be no empty nest for us for at least 15 more years.
Hugs coming your way!

Tammie said...

I remember when you told me that this day was coming. We laughed about how you were going to cry because it's what mothers do.

You have raised a wonderful, loving young man. Justin truly is a son to be proud of. Perhaps it has a little something to do with the mother & father who guided him with love, honesty & friendship.

Besides, we all know that Justin will be around. After all, who's going to teach the Dynamic Duo how to handle their parents!?

Jane said...

Missy Big Sissy - I know that must have been hard...He is such a sweet young man and now he has pushed off to his next chapter. Luckily he is the kind of son that will keep you involved in his book of life. I love you...call me.

Candy said...

I know exactly how you feel. I went through the same with Rebecca. All I can tell you is that it does get easier, but it's also hard. He's not far away either, which is a positive. I know you'll miss him and he'll miss all of you too. Good Luck, Justin!

Tammie said...

You've been tagged! Stop by & see what's up.

dawn said...

Oy Vey....I have a lump in my throat. Oh darn it that lump just pushed water out of my eyes!

Don't be sad because you have raised an amazing young man and he will be fine. Step back and relish in a job well done.

Love me

DawnS said...

Awww Lori... you gave me tears too! I know sometimes I can look at Hanna and it seems like just yesterday I held her in my arms for the first time. 8.5 years passed in the blink of an eye and Rylee's "baby" time is just passing way to fast. Gotta go hug my babies!

Donna said...

I have tears in my eyes remembering the day my son left the nest. I just hope (like Justin) he'll make one last return before finally flying the coop forever.

It's bittersweet. We want them to be men but we can't help but want them to forever stay our little boy.

Donna
Our blog: Double Happiness!