What a difference a few days makes. I am now living on my own for the first time in my life! That’s right, all you twenty- (or thirty-) somethings, the bombmom has never been totally on her own! Moved from home when I got married at age 21 and always had my husband and then my sons living with me. Well, the final son at home (Patrick) moved out over the weekend. A strange new experience for me. While Kevin has been gone for some time, Patrick was still here. It’s very quiet now–no phones ringing, no tv on in the back of the house, no friends at the front door, no asking anyone to keep voices down at 11 pm when I’m heading off to bed.

Patrick is living with his girlfriend, Veronica, in an apartment in Sierra Madre. Thankfully, I totally love Veronica! And even though I expected this would happen, I wasn’t ready when it did. For over 25 years Patrick has always been with me and, even though I knew he wouldn’t be here forever, it always seemed it would happen sometime in the future. We talked about him moving out many times, but it was just talk, not reality. Well, reality set in on Saturday.

I am really happy for Patrick because I know this is a move in the right direction for him. And it is no doubt the best thing for me as well. It’s just different. Once Kevin left home, he and I became much better friends. Since I think Patrick and I are already good friends, things should only get better. And, he’s only 5-10 minutes away, so I think I will see him every once in a while.

Good luck, Patrick, and much love as you head out on your own.