After a very memorable, enjoyable summer a few years back, our oldest son began packing for his freshman year in college. Trying to let him be independent and not feel like Mom was peering over his shoulder, I continued my own daily routine. Bill, my husband, was working out of town, so this packing slash moving-in experience was going to be mine to accomplish with Billy alone. In two days we’d be driving the four hour drive to his university where he’d spend the next four years of his life. I thought we had plenty of time. I spent that first afternoon baking some oatmeal cookies that I knew would travel well and would stay fresh in a Rubbermaid container. After dinner that night I wandered into Billy’s room and noticed his meticulous closet and dresser drawers had been emptied into three suitcases and three United Van Lines boxes. There was still a lot of “stuff” sitting around, but he’d made a major dent. Bill called and asked about our progress. I said we were good and ready to pack the car.
The next day we woke early, knowing we needed to pack the car, get down to my parents’ home which was 15 miles from Billy’s university, have dinner, talk about Billy’s upcoming adventure, then get up the following morning to drop Billy off to begin his college experience. We opened the back hatch of my Ford Explorer, put down the back seat to provide more packing space, then Billy, Jimmy and I began hauling Billy’s bedroom our to the car. We filed out in line, placing the suitcases and boxes successfully in the car. Next came the computer keyboard, screen, tower,towels, stereo, C.D.s, books, pictures, posters, mini refrigerator still in it’s box, blender…..are you getting the picture? It’s not all going to fit! Okay, everything back out and placed on our front lawn. Neighbors drove by, slowed down, rolled down windows to which I’d say “I know, we’ve overpacked.” We opened the suitcases under the shade of our oak tree and started wading through what Billy had packed. I had to step in. “Billy, you won’t need your UGGS in Southern California. Billy, you won’t need your swim team jacket in Southern California. And on and on. An hour later the car was packed, leftovers having been hauled back into Billy’s bedroom, and the three of us embarked on our road trip towards Billy’s freshman year. Next blog-moving Billy in.
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The whole move in process can be so stressful! Taking kids across country is even tougher. With bag fees these days I don’t know how anyone can manage.
Really looking forward the moving in post.
Comment by Sharon — June 26, 2009 at 4:27 pm
Being separated from your child and letting him be independent is really hard for the parents. It’s so heart-breaking especially if it’s the very first time you’ll get separated for each other for so long. Actually, it’s bitter-sweet because you know it’s for the good. They’ll learn a lot if they’ll live independently. It feels sad packing the stuffs of your child(ren). It’s as if he’s going away and will never come back. Well, I’ve been with the same experience when my child went to college.
Comment by Dina — June 26, 2009 at 4:32 pm
The packing process is always a pain! Kids think they need to bring everything and we’re only there to load up the car! It is good experience though! Packing the car can be difficult, but once you guys get on your way, it will be more enjoyable!
Comment by Lynda — June 26, 2009 at 4:34 pm
Moving is probably the most stressful event in my life, and I feel like you end up keeping half of your things in the moving box for the next 4 years until you finally decide to get ride of it.
Comment by Laurie D — June 26, 2009 at 4:42 pm
There’s gonna be a big change your life now, for sure. All you can think about is “time really flies so fast”
Comment by mon — June 26, 2009 at 4:54 pm
I feel that the packing process is really stressful. Your child always wanted to bring along everything they have for they know they won’t be back for some time. But I think parents feel more pressure because it’s the first time that your child will be away from you.
Comment by marie — June 26, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Oh wow the packing process truly was a nightmare. Mine turned into a huge argument, but in the end brought me and my daughter closer.
Comment by Staci — June 26, 2009 at 5:16 pm
A lot of parents feel very nervous when their child are moving in. Good thing, there are dozens of schools offer two- or three-day parent-orientation sessions to get Mom and Dad comfortable with everything from housing to campus security. Schools also are offering programs to help parents learn to let go and to keep their goodbyes brief enough. For parents… go through the motions and allow yourself some time to adjust. Remember how important it is to fill your days, and don’t allow yourself to mope around the house. Get moving!
Comment by Hart — June 26, 2009 at 5:27 pm
It’s best to pack the bare essentials and fill the room later as you go. schools usually have some kind of service that shuttles students to stores.
Comment by Melanie — June 26, 2009 at 7:22 pm
I despise moving. Well, not necessarily the moving. More of the packing. I feel your pain!
Good luck to your son’s college life!
Comment by Kate — June 26, 2009 at 11:14 pm
Your entire post was very cinematic. I felt as though I was watching your experience.
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