Miranda Goes Camping

Tonight is one of those nights were a parent doesn't sleep so soundly. My 17-year-old deaf daughter went camping with three of her 18-year-old deaf girlfriends without parental supervision. When I first heard about this plan and was asked permission, I postponed making a decision. I thought it wouldn't happen.

When Miranda came back to me a week later asking again for permission, I asked for more details. I need specifics. She didn't supply any for days, which lulled me into thinking the great plan had fallen through. No, decision need to be made. Then a couple of days ago I got the text message that said basically I'm going camping for two days and one night with three girls on Wednesday in Santa Cruz. She provided details. Ugh. The decision had been made. If I could think of a good reason, other than I won't get any rest until I know you home safe, I would have employed it to dissuade her. But I didn't have one and, no gut instinct, psychic-messaging to even irrationally base a "no" upon. So she and her girls went. Now awaiting word that all's well.

Of course, I'm sending out good vibes to the universe and hoping that this mini-adventure for these girls, as they push the boundaries of their independence, goes without a big problem. Little problems are fine. That's how they learn and feel confident that they can succeed in the big, wide world, by meeting and overcoming the challenges...Just no big ugly problems tonight, please. That is my prayer as I lay me down to sleep tonight.