Decision Day at the Wilkinsons

College choices have finally been made. It's hard to believe my babies will be headed off into the big world all alone in less than six months. Never mind that they will be two months older than I was when I first left home - they're too young! Actually, I'm just not quite ready to let them go, but that's exactly what I must do. And they really are ready. If the truth be told, all three of my kids could have taken care of themselves if they had to by the age of thirteen.

I'm grateful that all three have chosen schools relatively close to home - DB had decided to join JB at Texas State... Not so much because he's there, but because they offered her the best scholarships, and she was admitted to their Honor Program. A hand written note from the dean of the program commenting on the depth of her essays didn't hurt any either! DA decided on UT Austin. (Hook 'em!) They have a great acting program, and she already knows several of the faculty there. They are so much better prepared than I was that there is really no way I can rationally worry about them. I know the most exciting times of their lives are yet to come, and I want them to enjoy it to the fullest.

Something I can rationally be concerned about is financing four different households!! I feel very strongly that everyone should move away their freshman year. Even if away is to a dorm in the same city you grew up in. It's time for the little birdies to spread their wings a bit. That means that John and I will continue to share our current home, but each of the kids will have a separate abode - JB in an apartment in San Marcos, DA in Jester and DB in Laurel Hall (we think). That's a LOT of rent! I'm not sure how we'll do it, but I know that we will. And I know that we will be finished within five years, and then John and I get to go play. Hmmm, maybe I should start making travel plans now.