As a mother, I’ve learned to be stoic.

When I am hurting inside, there are times I have to hide it and be strong so that my children will feel confident and less anxious.  Today was one of those days.

Emma has been home from college for Winter break for a month.  Today I had to take her back, and it was almost harder than it was when I first dropped her off in August.  It’s been nice having her home.  It felt peaceful.  She and her brother actually got along.  We played board games and got pizza on Wednesdays and smoothies on Fridays.

But today I had to leave her again and though my heart was breaking, I tucked it all in so that her own sadness would be eased.

I cried in the car when I was out of sight, once again having to let go.