<p>good to hear how common the sadness is…once my son finalized his decision I began to feel it—little spacy, kind of sad–“how could this really be happening”. when my son went on his 3 day scholarship competition to the college he ultimately plans to go to I ached–not being dramatic and never like that…I felt his absence, just missed the years, the sharing and the little boy he used to be. I know he is ready and I feel proud to send him into the world a decent, down to earth, good kid. but I know there will be those times, when life brings what life brings and he will feel all that. we can’t keep those from them, nor can we keep ourselves from recognizing that as they become adults, they will face life on life’s terms…so glad we have forged a close relationship and he can talk about his own excitement, along with his concerns, etc. me thinks that will be a very good coping skill to have for life…love the warmth and sensitivity of the dads on here and please remember and hold onto that your kids are blessed to have you!</p>