Did the above title make sense?If that title resonates, you might also be a mother like me who, even from across the country, still feels a deep ache recalling those days. You likely scoured news and videos searching for hope amid fear and found mostly sadness.
I think of those women who are still waiting for their little ones, and the fear is real.
Is it rational? No. Rational or not, the emotions are there, and so I must deal with them.
Now it’s my turn. I’m preparing to send my daughter away for six nights and seven days of camp. This is the same child who still sleeps in our room, wakes from nightmares, and would eat nothing but sugar, if allowed. Yet, she is about to attend summer camp.
I prepare for all scenarios I can imagine, knowing something unexpected may happen anyway.
Considering the camp’s location, a mountain plateau in the heart of Tennessee, my mind rests somewhat, since flooding shouldn’t be an issue. Still, I’m sending her with a life vest for peace of mind. Realistically, most risks will be typical of a gymnastics camp: fatigue and questionable food choices. I can hear the phone conversation now, “No, Lillie, four cookies and a bag of Skittles is not an adequate lunch!”
Still, my mommy brain stays on high alert, thinking through all the other possible dangers, just in case.
Usual dangers, sunburn, and such, are easy to plan for. My worries sometimes get exaggerated: bears, campfires, even piranhas. Still, I got a whistle for her to use to chase away bears or if she gets separated from her group. I don’t have much I can do about piranhas except curse that stupid movie.
Does an AirTag on the shoe sound like too much?? Yes? No?
As these thoughts spin in my head, I wonder if maybe I need to take a deep breath or add another item to the list for my own peace of mind.
On a more realistic note, in addition to the whistle, I’ve found practical gadgets: slap bracelets that double as bright lights, snazzy lanterns for her and her teammates, an AirTag to clip to her water bottle, and a reflective raincoat.
All this to say, being a parent is riddled with fears and anxiety of all shapes and sizes. This seemingly innocuous step toward her adulthood has been difficult for me, but I know it will be an amazing experience for her. I know she will come back with memories that will last a lifetime, with new goals and aspirations, new friends and crushes. She is going to have a blast, and I can’t wait to hear all about it. Once she is home, safe and sound…with her water bottle and bear whistle.
