The journey had it's stresses for sure. The packing of our Ford Explorer became a challenge. How would he fit everything he wanted to take and still have room for three passengers. Some how we made it fit. So off we went on our 2,000 kilometer journey to Ontario. My wife and I knew that this was our last chance to impart our wisdom and our son knew it was his last chance to ignore it. Don't get me wrong. He knows we have some solid points. He just got tired of hearing it.
After two twelve hour driving days and a few successfully hidden tears, we arrived at our destination. We, as a family, have always been lucky to have great support from family and friends and that did not change when we arrived. We had a place to stay for three nights and our hosts were gracious, offering drinks in the evening and breakfast in the morning. That first morning was move in day at the college. We were all excited to see where H would be living. For me it was a chance to relive my college days and visit friends from 30 years ago. The move in went smoothly but anxiety was ever present, even though my son did not want to admit it, for all three of us, . Only a day and a bit left with each other.
It was a pleasant surprise for both my wife and I when, after he was settled in his dorm, my son was willing to visit the friends and family. This is where the anxiety lessens. Each person we spoke to would ask H for his contact information and gave him their information. He was immediately booked for any holiday while he was living in London and offers of "being there" and helping in any way were given. I can't tell you how much that means to both my wife and I. I know that H can take care of himself but to have this kind of support was appreciated from all three of us.
Finally that last morning came. It wasn't even a whole morning. My wife and I got up and had breakfast with our hosts, again, thanks so much, and then we called H to arrange one last moment together before we got on the road. I expected to have woken him up but he was ready for us when we arrive at the dorm. Lumps in throats, we both hugged him and told him how much we loved him. He was a bit embarrassed by the tears and cracked voices but he allowed us to have our moment. Then it was over... he turned and headed back in and we went to the car, pausing for a time to wipe our eyes and clear our throats.
The ride home was quieter. We texted with him and on our last day on the road, we called to find out how his first day of college went. He rushed the call, not because he didn't care, but because his new life had begun and its call was far stronger than ours. Once home we both took a moment to look around the house and listen. No kids in the basement, no thumping music from the stereo and no games being played. Quiet. It will take some getting used to that's for sure. But look on the bright side ... only fourteen more weeks till he comes home for Christmas!!
We love you H.
