Most think separation and its related feelings of anxiety are just for babies. We had a family reunion this past weekend. Just two parents, one child with spouse, one child (recently separated) with 9-month-old grandchild. All had a wonderful four days. When it came to say goodbye, grandchild cried really loudly (she knew something was happening); and Gramma Shannie cried the hardest. Separation anxiety began for me at that first separation each time I gave birth (I’m sure there are similar moments for those who have children join their family in other ways). As I discovered yesterday on a beautiful summer afternoon, I’m still experiencing it. The rental bathroom sink, filled for 4 glorious days with all kinds of toothbrushes and several flavors of matching paste, was a now a wasteland featuring splashes of dried paste and two lonely toothbrushes belonging to the sad grandparents already planning the next reunion.
the baby gave in on her crying after a few minutes…but her mama also cried. it was really hard to leave you and dad. we had such a wonderful time!