As I look at your pictures from your younger years.

My first born.

I am moved and brought to tears.

I am completely torn.

Yes, this day was inevitable.

But I didn’t expect it so soon.

The thought of you moving out makes me emotional.

Why? Because two months ago you were just sitting in your room.

This idea didn’t even exist.

Feels like I’m trapped in a whirlwind.

Slow down. Please. I insist.

As my head continues to spin.

It was just a few weeks ago that I found out I’m going to be a grandmother.

Wait. Hold on. I need a moment to breathe.

Advice, I tried to give, but it goes in one ear and out the other.

Where did my little girl go? I’m not ready for you to leave.

I know I can’t hold on to you forever.

You have to live your own life.

Just know I’m here no matter the weather.

Even when you make the decision to become his wife.

-Rose

Slow Down. These past two months have been an emotional roller coaster. My faith in Jesus has definitely been helping me through. I also have great friends and family in my life that I am truly thankful for. My oldest daughter, Ray of Sunshine, moved out the day I wrote this poem. She is currently 19. I remember when I moved out at 19, into my own apartment. Kid free. I actually got a place with her dad. My first time out on my own. I had to learn how to be responsible with paying my own bills and managing money. It was an experience that wasn’t easy because I wasn’t shown how to manage finances. I had to mature quickly if I was going to survive. Although my Ray is in a slightly different situation than I was, she is still going to have to grow up quickly. I have been praying for her because the road she is currently on isn’t going to be easy.

The day she moved out she did leave a few things behind. Every time I would go in the room to sit with my youngest, I would tear up. I miss her. I miss hearing her laugh. I miss her silliness. Typing this now has me tearing up just thinking about it. She is my first born. This day came so fast. Just last year we were celebrating her graduating from high school. There is still so much for her to learn. Although this is not what I envisioned for her at this age, I know that my God is in control. I believe that He has a plan for her and it is good.

We all have our own story. Our own journey. This one is hers. All we can do, to the best of our ability, as parents is love them, guide them, and let them go. She knows that her mommy is here for her. I am still proud of her and proud to be her mom.

☦️“Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.22.6.NLT