Sounds like your daughter is spreading her wings and is on the right path.....this is one thing I will never experience, because I've never had children. I'm sure your heart is aching.

Hugs
Sharon

Sheryl,
I can only imagine how you feel- but I have two boys,
10 & 12, and I know I have many growing up experiences
ahead of me in the future. And it won't be that long-
the years go by so fast, don't they?
You can be sure your daughter will come home for visits,
but I can understand how you must feel right now, thinking
she would be coming home perhaps to live and work,etc.
I don't blame you for feeling like you are in shock.
As Sharon said, she is spreading her wings and I'm sure
she is on the right path, it sounds like you have raised
her well, and she's on the "right road" so I'm sure
you don't have to worry, but that doesn't stop the pain
a parent feels, I know.

I remember way, ( way? !! ) back when I left home to work
in Edmonton, I was fortunate enough to start out living
with a cousin, his wife and kids. I needed that, I'll
tell you, I was "straight off the farm". But Mom and Dad
had raised me well- and I made out fine. I say though,
the first job I got was one where I had the midnight shift
and had to take the bus, and Mom told me she prayed every
single night for my safety- thanks Mom!
And because it was only a 1 1/2 hour drive from home, I did
get home quite often, although I usually took the train
which thankfully still ran in those days. But you know
what? There was no phone at home at the farm in those days, ( no, I'm not "that" old, but they waited for
the good farm phone lines to go in--in the 70's )
But still it worked out.

And it will work out for your daughter too-
Give her a call this weekend if she doesn't call you
and tell her you love her- as though I have to add that!

My thoughts are with you-
Hugs!
Faith

Remember when you, yourself left the nest? It's the way of things. Your daughter was lucky enough to have a fine home and parents. I'm sure she will grow in the right direction. This is nature's way and we must adjust.

You know your daughter will return home again. Seek other interests now while you have your son around.

I had six children and while one is away (she's a doctor) the others are within driving distance. I'm a widow and would be devestated if I never saw my children. It's hard enough only seeing my daughter at holidays. But I realize they each have their own lives now and I am not at the center of it. That is life and I have many interests to keep my mind on now.

Nancy