Home Alone

Earlier this week, Danielle experienced her own "home alone" moment! I had a work trip in San Antonio and Jeff tagged along for a delayed mini anniversary getaway, which meant Danielle had run of the place. Naturally, we each had a different take on this milestone / life experience.

Danielle was super excited and thrilled to have her own space and be in charge and not a single worry in sight.

Jeff was completely unfazed. Just another day in life and she's totally got this - we just gotta stay out of her way.

I was in a low-state of panic much of the time, wondering if it was a great idea or terrible idea to leave a teen home alone. My "what if" brain was all over the place. (Mind you, she is a responsible, respectful, intelligent, fully capable human being.) 

No surprise: Jeff and Danielle were right.

For 3 days, she woke up and made it to school on time every morning. She got herself to and from work without issue. She came home safely each day. She did dishes, managed her schedule and completed her homework for the week (including a 2+ page paper on the social responsibility of the US using atomic bombs in Japan). And most importantly, she kept Trixie and Ila and herself alive and fed. It was hardly any different from every other day when we are around! 

Another notch in the belt—loosening my grip a bit, while she gains more independence.