<p>This should be a very happy day. D was accepted into her dream college a few weeks ago and needs to mail in the deposit this week, along with her agreement to withdraw all other applications, in order to hold her spot. Last night she signed the paperwork, we wrote out the check, and put it in an envelope to mail today. This is the culmination of a lot of hard work and effort on her part to get accepted into this college. </p>
<p>D is thrilled and we are excited that she was accepted into her reach school. For some reason, however, I have been unable to get up the nerve to bring the envelope to the mailbox. I have stared at it for a couple hours wondering if we are doing the right thing. A million questions race through my mind. I know this sounds stupid, especially since I have responded to similar posts by cc memebers in the past, but I just can't seem to drop this in the mail. Anyone else ever have this issue and can offer some words of advice?</p>
<p>Can you figure out what’s holding you back? Is it financial concerns? The idea that you’re child is moving onto the next phase? Is there another school that you think might be better for her?</p>
<p>Once that letter goes into the mailbox, the reality sinks in that your D is growing up, that she’ll be away from home, and that your life will change forever. I see your reaction not as commitment anxiety but separation grief. </p>
<p>But that is our jobs as parents, to give our kids roots and wings. Prepare to embrace your new role in her life and the new horizons opening up for you.</p>
<p>BobbyCT- Turn the metaphorical page, put the letter in the mailbox. Rejoice in parental pride the fact that your D’s hard work has parlayed into admissions to her dream school. Step into the wings and let her bask in the spotlight of center stage.</p>
<p>I reread my own post and realized that I just had to get up and mail it. I appreciate everyones feedback. I sure hope that this is not separation grief because I can’t imagine how I will feel in August.</p>
<p>Bobby, look at it this way. You get all this time to KNOW where your d will be next year, and to plan and think and dream with her. Go look at the college’s website, blogs, whatever - get as acquainted with her new environment as you can. Book your travel for Parents Weekend ;)</p>
<p>^ archiemom, that is so true. D also had to pick the one college where she did not receive any scholarship money. Oh well, she made the right educational decision for her.</p>
<p>I think it’s good to feel a little anxious now and then so that it’s not a big shock to the system, come August. Every now and again, I get a jolt of anxiety when I realize what it will mean for my son to leave home in 8 months. I’m okay with the ‘jolts’ because I know it’s helping to ease my way into the realities of having my only child go off the college. This is major turning point in your life and your daughter’s. You would have to be totally numb not to feel some level of separation anxiety as you go through this process. Congrats! I only wish that we were so ‘settled’ in the process at this point. My son is still filling out applications.</p>
