I’ve been tiptoeing across a bridge that I’m not sure I want to cross. It’s the bridge of parenting an adult versus a child. It’s the bridge of trusting a young person and knowing I do not need to direct their every move. It’s the bridge of letting my child fail safely and letting them figure out the road to success. It’s the bridge of letting my child grow up.
As I write this, my child—19—is on a grand adventure in Puerto Rico. My location services remind me she is 1,866 miles away. Oof. As she packed for her trip, I felt a little sad. Perhaps I was even a little salty—though I didn’t mean to be—as her excitement grew. I shared with my husband that I was feeling down, and he asked, “You’re sad that she is growing up?” Well, yes, perhaps. But would I want it any other way? Absolutely not.
So, I’ve continued to tiptoe across this bridge into a new stage of life. Through various activities (rowing!), I focus on moving forward. I’m not leaving my role as a parent; I’m just growing my role and opportunities in this beautiful life I’ve been given. Thus, this year’s texture project.
A few weeks ago, I looked at our calendar and could see summer slipping away. With limited weekends for adventuring, I booked a quick trip to Pelee Island, Canada, with my husband. I grabbed the passports, an overnight bag, and two bikes (we left the car in Sandusky), and we went to make some new memories. Over the course of two days, 20+ miles on bikes, and some beautiful scenery, I continued to think about what a beautiful journey it’s been as a parent of a young child… and what a beautiful journey awaits.
Are you ready to write some new stories too? Pelee Island provides the perfect escape (poor wifi and cell service may just force that needed reflection).
Here’s an overview of our recent micro adventure to Pelee Island:
- Parking: Park overnight in Sandusky (FREE public parking!).
- Ferry: Take the ferry service to Pelee Island (we caught the Friday night, 8:30 p.m. ferry).
- Lodging: Stay overnight at the Wandering Dog Inn (I’m still thinking about the decadent breakfasts featuring homemade baked goods… pineapple upside-down cake for breakfast? You bet!).
- Exploring: Ride the 20+ miles of island roads. We did it via our bikes—tired legs, but happy hearts.
- Food & Beverage: Visit the Pelee Island Winery.
Tiptoeing my way across the bridge into new chapters of parenthood, I find myself walking gracefully into new chapters of my life.
Or, at least, I’m giving it a try.
