Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Holidays and The Only Child

.. We spent Father's day with my inlaws as  per usual. What  was unusual  was not one of my father-in-law's biological children were in attendance. When I casually  mentioned it to Lowell, he said, "Oh that's true."  noticing it for the first time and in prompt parental  fashion defended there whereabouts.  Keith had golfed with him earlier in the week, Margo and Bruce had called and are on their way in later this week for the anniversary...all is good there.  My point being  the  spattering of daughter-in law's and grandchildren  held joy in after all what is just one day in a very family -filled summer.
 In fast forward motion, I  realize that only too soon there will be everydays and holidays  without my only child  in attendance. We have bestowed a sense of priority for  the special occasions of those around us, not always successful..but the heart is there.
 So, when the day comes and the phone rings and Katrina says, " Mom,  will you mind if I go home with....... for Thanksgiving?'  will I be able to be able to bite my homesick tongue and be  "Ok " celebrating without her or at best an "alternative holiday"? Sharing, that skill aptly learned as  a pre-schooler is one we are reminded of   many times in the next year as parents.
From college applications, interviews and auditions, I begin to contemplate all the ways in which we will be "sharing" our girl and  her accomplishments with tons of new people this year . She has a truly unique set of experiences that  will serve her well as the stepping stones to her version of "success".

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