Daughters

I love my daughters dearly. I think though it's time to become much less involved in their lives and let/make them grow up. It's going to be hard because I love knowing what's going on in their lives.  I love being an active part in their lives. But I think it's time to step back and let them make their own mistakes.  Of course I'll be there for them when they need it, but I'm going to start living my life for me.  I need to find things to do to keep myself busy and let them come to me if they need something.  So when they get back from their trip, I'll ask if they had a good time and if they want to tell me more fine, but I won't ask any more questions.

I think I'll mention to them that they are responsible for themselves. That means I won't remind them they need to get their college books or pay tutition, they will have to suffer the consequences if they don't.  If they ask for help, I will gladly give it to them, but I won't offer. I won't be doing their laundry or reminding them to clean their bathroom, if it gets filthy, they can live with it. I won't offer advice unless asked. Although the oldest has already admitted that most of the time mom and dad know what they are talking about and that we are usually right.

Now I need to think of things to keep me busy so I won't want to meddle in their lives...I really should join some type of exercise class, not sure I really want to though!  Maybe I can find a book club, I love to read.  I like to crochet, so I know I will pick that up again. But I want something to get me out of the house, something that will get me away from them, so I'm not always there for them. I'll think of something I'm sure.

I'm really sad, I feel like I've had a big loss in my life.  But I know this is something I need to do.  They won't be home till Wednesday night...I have to figure out how to act when they get home.  I really need to try to act as normal as possible and be happy they are home.  I need to give them big hugs, ask how the trip was and if they had fun, then I need to leave them be and go live my life.