I knew this is the one place that would so understand how freeing this is for, not only me, but all of us here. My first born has left for school. He's going to UTI in North Carolina. I am letting him get a "higher education". Yes, I fought with my mom over this, but this is my decision. I am proud that he was able to go at age 17. (he turned 17 two weeks before he left) I feel that doing the paper work, and running around because I needed this or that, was a very liberating feeling for me.
I know that the folks who live around us, really have no idea about what a big deal this is. He is the first one ever in our family to get more than a high school diploma. I am proud of him, happy for him. So I came here, wanting to celebrate with those who know that this isn't just him going away to school. It's living in the here and now, which we used to not do. Not waiting for some day to come, and save us from our poor planning. It is seizing the day, making our lives better, it is living our life the way we want.
I just wanted to share. I feel giddy for him, and for me.