Apron Strings

Will is gone tonight. He's on a Scout Campout.  Without his father. 

 This is the first campout of many to come where he will be without an adult member of the family. 

 Matt is out of town. 

 I asked Will if he would let me accompany him.  He rolled his eyes and snorted in my face. 

 I don't think he quite understands. 

 He is my oldest.

  There is still snow in the mountains where he'll be camping.  The rivers are running high. It will be cold.  He is tenting with just another young 11 year old boy.  I know how foolish they can be.

 What is the scout program thinking sending boys away overnight from their moms at such a young age? 

 Could it be that they know what's best for 11 year old boys... and their moms? 

 Baby Steps. 

 This summer it will be an entire week away at camp.

 I just felt some threads tear from my apron strings. 

 I don't know whether to smile or cry.