7th grade field trip part I

I sent the princess off to her first overnight, truly away from home school trip this morning.  My feelings were mixed but I had to let her go. This is a growing experience for both of us. She has always been self confident about these things since she was a wee little princess. The one that is most memorable was the first day of kindergarten. She dismissed us at the door this morning just as she had that day back in September 2008. The only difference for me today was that I didn't hang around to peek in the window.

Over the past few weeks I shared my seventh grade field trip adventure with her. My trip was for the day; as it turned out a very long and unforgettable day. I wonder what she'll remember from her trip when she prepares to send her children on their first adventure away from home.
She is fortunate that she has traveled a bit. I no longer check the bags she packs, although I want too. I'm fairly confident she's taken no contraband. She still has not mastered the art of traveling light though. She left with a backpack with books in it, some water and snacks, a bag with her clothing and her purse. I offered to assist with any last minute things, her response was "I got it, mom."

A friend asked where she was headed then reassured me it wasn't that far away if I needed to get her. In fact my friend even offered to accompany me. My expectation is that will not be necessary.