I've got the blues ...

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 |
The Carolina Blues


My sweet boy {who really isn't a boy any longer} returned to North Carolina for fall session a few weeks ago. Is it wrong that I've been checking off the days until he returns for fall break? :)

He loves being there and all that it has to offer. I can see it in his face and hear it in his voice. I'm happy for that. Really I am.

That doesn't make my missing him any easier though.  

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 {jokingly posing for his annual back to school shot}

He was born with a smile on his face {but not that scruffy beard that I don't care for :)} and even when he's upset, it isn't long before the corners begin to creep back up into their natural state.

There is an unwelcoming silence each time he leaves to go back to school. This year that silence is so loud, it's deafening! I'm really having a hard time with his absence. I miss the daily interactions in our home and the casual conversations that ensue.

Nicholas has the ability to change the disposition of a room just by entering. His personality is big and lively and all encompassing.

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He is kind and generous. Over the past few years I've really enjoyed our conversations as he begins to form his own personal thoughts and feelings towards the "hot topics."  We may not always see eye to eye on every topic {and that's ok} but he is growing and finding his way in this very big world with so many challenging hurdles. I value his perspectives and am humbled at times by his wisdom at such a young age.  His fortitude is strong and will carry him well through his adventures in life.



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Never to be the follower, even as a toddler, he is a leader and steps out of the way for those that choose a path he wouldn't consider. Before doing so, he takes the time to share with them the possibilities of where their choices may lead them and the consequences that could follow. I marvel at his strength and smile within knowing that he was listening to us during those formative years and tucked our words away for safe keeping.

 
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 Nicholas is often my right hand man when we have parties or large gatherings.Willing to jump in and help without being asked. He knows exactly what to do and is on the spot even before I have a chance to form the directive words. He cooks, hosts, converses and the best ~ he helps clean up after the last guest has left! He has even been known to change his plans for the evening and take over the kitchen just so that I have the ability to enjoy my guests.

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Nicholas, always remember that you are my greatest accomplishment. I expect great things from you as your life unfolds and you continue your journey through life. You are an amazing and talented young man.

I am SO proud of you!

I love you tons and tons,
Mom

I hope he knows just how much I love him. I tell him every chance I get but does he understand the depth of those simple words?


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30 comments:

Lisa@Pickles and Cheese said...

This was such a nice post to read and you have a very handsome son! Which school in NC? My daughter is in her 2nd year in Chapel Hill.She loves it there. It's very quiet around here when she's at school.

Anonymous said...

What beautiful touching words Jo. Your Nicholas sounds like an amazing young man. Clearly you've given him the roots every parent dreams of cultivating.

My daughter has 2 more years before she leaves the nest...You words are how I imagine I will feel. She would like to go to Trinity-perfect distance from home (we're in Boston).

Thinking of you, Jo!

Kathy said...

Oh Jo, I can only imagine...

I pray that I can write similar words someday.

It sounds like you have good reason to be proud. If only he were younger, I have a darling little girl....I kid. :)

Hang in there during this transition. I imagine little Bentley is helping with the quiet. Nothing like a squishy puppy to soothe an aching heart.

I'll be thinking of you.

Suburban Princess said...

Awww he sounds like an awesome young man! Which tells me you are an awesome mom!

Anonymous said...

Oh my, you said everything in that post that I would say to my son. I have a boy just like that. He is a junior in High School this year and he lights up every room he enters and everyone loves him. Your words at the end of that post were: Does he know the depths of those words. I Love You. I wonder that also. I cried as I read your post today. What blessings they are.
Linda
Ocala, Fla.

Town and Country House said...

Talked to my college boy last night, and all I can say is, I really miss him.

Trish {Pink Preppy Lilly Lover} said...

Hi dearest Jo, what a beautiful post...I loved hearing about your sweet (and handsome!) Nicholas, he sounds like such a fine young man, and I know you and your husband are so proud of him. I'm sure it's just not quite the same when he is not around! I hope he has a wonderful year at school! Thinking of you and sending hugs xoxo - Trishy

Telia said...

Jo, your words are so beautiful. You mention how blessed you are to have him as a son; but I can tell you, he’s just as fortunate to have such a loving mother like you.

When I left for college, my mom was always so down. What she didn’t know is that I missed her just as much. Yes, your son is busy and I’m sure he has lots of friends, but deep down he misses that momma of his too! There’s no place like home and there’s no one like Mom.

Telia, NewlyWedWifeLife

JMW said...

What a wonderful post and what a great son you have there! His personality and that of my son (although only 3!) sound quite similar. They grow up so fast - cherish every moment!

Dee Stephens said...

Love this post! Such a good looking man and awesome that he's going to UNC-Chapel Hill.
When I used to leave for college my Mom would stand in the driveway and cry as I drove off. I never could understand it? haha! I guess I'll know one day. Right?

French Basketeer.com said...

just a quick word, love you honey, take a look at my activities in France....xxoo A

Marilyn *Pink Martinis and Pearls* said...

Next week I know I will be feeling the same as you are today. What a wonderful son you have and I have to say he sounds identical to my son who leaves to go back on Thursday. Don't you feel blessed being his mom? And the party prep, that is not a little thing to be taken forgranted. I believe it is a gift for analyzing the situation and having the ability to look forward. I think this skill alone will separate your son from the rest of the pack and make them invaluable in business and successful in life, don't you think? :)

Your post was beautiful and so heartfelt. :) xoxo

Draffin Bears said...

Hi Jo,

What a beautiful post about your handsome Son and the bond and love you share for each other.
You must be so proud and he is a lucky Man to have had a loving and caring family and upbringing.

Sending hugs and hope it won't be long before he will be back again
Carolyn

Jessica Ryan said...

he knows how much you love him... a lovely post jo... he is adorable!

bevy said...

What a tribute to your son. You have raised a wonderful man who will make some girl out there very lucky!

And I love how he favors you so much!

Tessa said...

At least you've got that cute pup to keep you busy! And no, I don't think our children understand the depth of our love. At least not until they become parents themselves -- there is nothing like it.
He looks sounds like a wonderful young man. You should be proud! Quite a catch for some lucky lady too if I may say so. :)

Casey said...

Ah... he'll understand when he has little ones of his own. I think that's when you really GET what your mom and dad have been telling you for so long. That unconditional love.

What a sweet, sweet post. I love the "traditional" back to school shot. lol. So sweet.

My husband teaches at NC State. Don't know where he is going in NC but he can't go wrong with the schools here!!! Hope he has a great year!!

Preppy Pink Crocodile said...

What a beautiful post! I love Carolina- CH is a great town!

Travelbugmom said...

I actually have tears in my eyes!! Your words were just beautiful...I could NEVER write like that...what a gift!

It is not easy to raise a boy into such a perfect man. To see the fruits of your labor mature is overwhelming. So glad you put it all on paper!

:) happy days ahead!

Unknown said...

Your son sounds like such a joy! My oldest is only 10, and I am already dreading when she leaves for college!

René said...

Wow! I can't see the keyboard now. That was beautiful Jo. I feel the same way about our boys and they only leave home for the day to attend school. It sounds like you have done an outstanding job with him and I know you are proud. He is very handsome!

midnight macaroons said...

I recognize his expression in the last picture, "C'mon mom, enough with the pictures." I'm the photographer in our family and I get that look quite often. :)

On a serious note, you have a very lovely son. He is extremely handsome and it's always good to hear a mama who is proud of her son. It sounds like you raised a good one. I wish him much success in school.

glee said...

Such moving words. They brought me to tears. You are such a wonderful mom. :)

And he is a very handsome young man.

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ellieshine said...

I love this post - but it makes me sad :( Your Nicholas is a good looking boy - and he sounds wonderful too.

I loved that you said he is your greatest accomplishment - I remember an Olympics commercial from years ago when a Mom said that - love that!!

Unknown said...

Jo....I am so touched by this. My little guys are so...well, little. I have a long way to go to raise them. I can only pray they turn out as well as your son, Nicholas. You must be so proud.

My boys were both born in North Carolina...so I often wonder if they will go back there for college!
xo Elizabeth

Lisa Porter said...

Oh that last look back at you got me good! He is a looker!
Hope the baby is better every day.
It's unbearable when they can't tell you what hurts.
Hugs to you mom.
xoxo

Kate Spears said...

what a sweet sweet story. your son is adorable! it's obvious he feels the same way about you! love this so much! thanks for sharing such a beautiful post!

eastcoastsurfermom said...

beautiful words, pictures, son, and blog post...one to remember...

eastcoastsurfermom said...

beautiful words, pictures, son, and blog post...one to remember...

Kat said...

How beautiful! Totally crying here, what a lovely post!

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