He packed his case 6 hours before he left. He was leaving at 4am so it was just before he fell into a slump.
After he had put in 3 vests, 2 pairs of shorts and some aftershave ( vital obviously) I stuffed in half a loo roll, some dried apricots, white kit kats, and a medical supply box that would impress Dr Quinn Medicine Woman.
Wipes, bits, stuff for allergies, rehydrators, paracetamol, plasters, mosquito spray.
I recall his first trip away when he was 7 he came back with his toilet bag unopened. Perfect clean folded facecloth, pristine unused soap, toothbrush missing. All clothes folded, and clean – he hadn’t changed his clothes at all.
Yup he left for Zante on Thursday. What I didn’t realise was they were leaving from Glasgow at 6am so had to get there for 4. Herding cats is an over used expression but 16 x 17 & 18 year old boys going off to Zante for the 1st time free of guidance, nagging, money and bossing of parents is a real cat herding exercise. No shit.
Taking a deep breath and determined to give him his space. I have resisted texting. In return every 2 days I get a two work text from Zante boy.
I am happy. This proves many things.
- He realises I am a neurotic old bat
- He is coherent enough to text
- He has the foresight to charge his mobile
- He notices he is not here.
The brief communications have been as follows.
Day 1. Arrived safe.
Day 2 NOTHING
Day 3 Apartment dodgy
Day 4 Nothing
Day 5 Need decent food.
Of course I have tried cajoling him. What are you eating? How hot is it? And just before I press send I think. Woah. Stop. Being the stalking woman it is not a good look. So I have refrained.
As I sat tucked up on the couch getting over the 2 week stay of our pals from Australia I flicked through the TV idly. And what did I find?
Inbetweeners Movie.
3 minutes in in I recalled the strict instructions from those who know
‘DO NOT under any cicrcumstances watch the Inbetweeners Movie.’
Too late.
Palpitations.
More insomnia – if you wonder if you can actually have more insomnia and less sleep. I am (zombie like) living proof you can.
The joys of parenthood.
Oh and take it from me. If you are a parent. Do not watch the Inbetweeners Movie. Ever.
If you’re not though do it’s funny as hell.
