El Campo Del Bosque

It's crazy but somehow these two are old enough to attend day camp. I had to get them to the center this morning by 8:30 am and when we left they were both in high spirits and ready to start their adventure. I was really surprised that Dakota was being as brave as she was but felt that tears were on the horizon. It wasn't until we were at the sign in table that she became uneasy and didn't want to leave my side so I signed her and Harper in and then made my way to a table with her since she refused to go with the counselor. While Harper happily went with his counselor and began his activities with the kids his age, I hung back with Dakota where she clung to my leg and cried a little while I did my best to encourage her. (I worried this would happen so I was prepared with my best arsenal of encouragement and kind words.) A little girl was sitting at the table next to Dakota's spot so I introduced them to each other which almost immediately calmed Dakota down. She finally sat and began working on the activity they had set out. I also asked the counselor sitting nearby her name and relayed that to Dakota and again, I felt some of the tension lift. I made a quick trip to Harper's table to tell him goodbye and then went back to tell Dakota I was heading out. She got upset and began to cry again but the counselor stepped in to help so I made my way out. 

Dakota being in tears as I left was difficult but I found it equally difficult to see Harper part so easily. Harper has never had the anxiety issues that Dakota has and I'm thankful for that but watching him become independent is certainly a double edged sword. I want him to be independent and feel secure while away from home but I also want to remain important and irreplaceable...parenting is tough.

As hard as it was to leave I REALLY want them to have these adventures while they can. I want them to know the fun of camp and making new friends and doing new things. I want them to know that no matter how far away they may be or how long they've been gone I'll always be here for them to come home to. Always. (You got that, Zoe & Landon?) :)