Margy and Evie are off to Juneau, Alaska for a church youth event, The Salvation Army's Alaska Youth Councils. After we dropped the girls off at Amber's place (youth pastor) I looked over at Lindy, my sister, behind the wheel and I could see her wiping her eyes. I wasn't alone in the crying mom category today!
Oh my goodness, this is the first time (other then summer camp) that I've been away from my daughter and niece. I cried this morning as I gave them both really long hugs and lots of kisses. I think what makes it so difficult is that this trip is such a distance away and they had to drive to Anchorage and then fly to Juneau. One might tell me to put on my "big girl" panties and buck up. This is what mom's have to do...to let go of their children. I know all that but I don't like it. It's the fact that I don't have control over the airplane and the cars and all the places the girls will be. If they get hurt I'm over a thousand miles away! How do moms and dads let their kiddos go off to college, get married and begin their adult lives? Evie is 13 and Margy is 14 and I'm honestly saying that I'm not looking forward to the day when they are ready to spread their wings and truly fly from the nest.
I know that today is the fluttering and testing of those wings but it is really hard on me. I also know that they are in good hands right now. Their youth pastor is with them and she is a very responsible young lady. I also know that our Father has them cradled in the palm of His hands where He will keep them safe. I guess today is the test for me to trust our Savior with what is so precious to me.
