All three of my kids are still on our phone plan.
All three are still logged into our streaming accounts. And I'm holding onto that.
They've all got their own apartments, their own health insurance, their own car insurance. Now that my youngest is leaving the nest, literally moving out next week, it's become clear that I'm not their CEO anymore. Just their VP, because slowly, they stopped needing me to run the logistics of their lives.
I'm grateful it happened slowly. That slowness gave me room to actually build something new, and pick up a sport I never expected to enjoy this much. I keep picturing a Venn diagram. For twenty-some years, those circles were nearly one shape. Now, I'm in one circle, they're in another. I cherish the overlap between them.
I can see where this is headed. The circles shifting, and honestly, it's all happening in a good way. But I won't pretend that doesn't startle me a little too. I'll know it's really official when they finally change the beneficiary on their 401k and it's not me anymore.
Love and support is always constant. They're standing proudly on their own now, and I'm beside them, instead of carrying them on my hip.
TODAY’S PICKS
THE FEATURE
When Motherhood Changes Shape.
The kids don't need you to run their lives anymore. This is what one mother's doing with all that reclaimed space.
THE REFLECTION
The One Who Didn't Care She Was Late.
A stepmother, a blended family, and the dog who made her feel like she belonged.
Still not following along on Instagram?
There's a version of Bloom. you're missing.
Looser, faster, more of me in real time. Find it @bloom.bytrish.
THE WILDCARD
Blue Used to Cost More Than Gold.
One painter loved it so much it bankrupted his family.
If you know someone who'd love this, send it to them.
That's the whole ask.
There's something in it for you too.
Details below.
My answer:
My own voice. Saying the actual opinion instead of the one that won't ruffle anyone.
