Our son Tyler just got back from a trip to Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama. My dad operates an educational tour company called 500 Tours, and this year they offered the trip to the junior high where Tyler goes to school.
Tyler's always been shy and quiet. He's the one I tend to worry about because he's not as social as my daughter. He's also one who needs constant reminding, "don't forget to take your shower, did you brush your teeth?" This was going to the first time for him to be away from home (and me) for a trip like this. Would he be okay going three whole days without me to watch out for him and remind him of things?
The first day he was gone, I sent him some text messages like, "R U having fun?" He didn't respond (of course, he's not connected to his cell phone like my daughter is). The second day I sent another text, but still no response. But, he DID call my husband! He wanted to know what was going on with a NASCAR race. Nothing about me... My husband said he told Tyler to give me call.
I waited for Tyler to call, but he never did. Finally, I couldn't stand it anymore and I called him later that night. He said he was sorry he forgot to call me. He and his roommates were in another room at the hotel where some classmates brought along their Wii. He said they might all sleep in their room. I was very happy to hear he was having fun and hanging out with the other kids. "So," I prodded, "are you going to take your shower in their room or yours?" To my shock, Tyler replied that he had gotten up at 5:30 and he took his shower that morning. What? He actually practiced good personal hygiene without me telling him to do it?
Tyler had a great time at Space Camp. He learned a lot, had fun, and proved that he doesn't need me quite as much as I thought he did. Sigh... I guess it's time for me to let go a little and let him grow up.
