<p>Suze, I agree with a lot of what you have said. As a Mom sending my only child far away, I have been sort of wondering why I'm not more "anxiety ridden". When I talk with parents about college plans, I always hear "OMG! That's so far away! How are you going to deal with that?" Well umm... Maybe I'm missing something but, this phase in a parent/child relationship is a big and natural transition anyway. I don't really see much difference caused by geography. The logistics are tougher, but the emotion is the same. And I agree with you that the people who end up with the broadest cultural points of view are the ones who have experienced the most diverse cultural experiences. I don't think my daughter would have the same opportunity staying on this coast.</p>
<p>And about the "neediness" of our children and our need to be needed... well obviously that is a natural transition too. My daughter has always been the one who calls daily from wherever she has traveled to and cries about wanting to come home. Then, miraculously, after about 4 days, when she has met people and feels comfortable in her space, she stops calling every day. And then when it's time to come home, she calls crying and begging to stay longer. </p>
<p>I have been very involved in my daughter's life for almost two decades. Of course I will miss her. But I don't think I will miss her anymore when she is on the East Coast than I would if she were closer.</p>
<p>(You all can remind me I said this when I'm a basket-case in September ;) )</p>