It’s moving day for the kid. Not quite 25 years old and he’s moving to Chicago. He already started his new job virtually a couple weeks ago, so he’s already familiar with that, but the apartment they are renting was leased after only seeing a video. The pandemic has changed so many parts of our lives, even viewing prospective living arrangements. So today, the moving truck arrives in Lansing and after the load-up, it will move Jacob and his girlfriend to their new home.

He has needed exactly nothing from me during this process. From job search, to interviews, to relocating, he has needed nothing. And to be completely honest, the fact is, there’s absolutely nothing I would have done differently or advised him against doing. They thoroughly researched and thought about potential jobs and this particular offer. They’ve gone over their budget numerous times. She has enough saved for her to job hunt for awhile to find something that truly lights her up and uses her talents. While they could have afforded it, they decided the responsible thing was to sell the Tesla since they won’t be driving nearly so much and to put that money aside. They took advantage of the moving stipend from the company and hired movers instead of pocketing the extra cash and trying to navigate downtown Chicago with a large moving van – even though they would have had plenty of help to unload. They have made every decision carefully and thoughtfully and responsibly. It turns out, they are adulting very, very well.

Which is great and awesome and fantastic and everything you dream of as a parent. But it also feels very weird. To be the mom but not be needed. For anything.

It isn’t the first time. Let’s be real. Jacob has been adulting since he was about six. But if he (and the girl) can navigate a move like this and a job change such as this in the middle of a global pandemic, I’m not sure what they couldn’t handle. So, while I wish I could be there to help unpack the dishes, or to run to the store to help stock the fridge, or even to take the pooch for a walk while they get a few things set up, I will instead be home, praying that everything goes as well as moving ever can. Praying for calm nerves and kindness to rule the day even when tempers get hot and things don’t go as planned. But mostly, I will pray that I might soon get to visit my amazing adult son and his girl in their new surroundings and celebrate all they’ve accomplished to get there.

I am blessed by the fact that to say “my adult children” isn’t an oxymoron in my world. It is just a reflection of the truth sidled up against my heartstrings. These very adult children are a blessing today and every day. Happy Moving Day Jacob and Carissa!