Flying the Nest

It's that time of year when young people head off to University to start the next stage of life's journey. This year has not been without its difficulties and problems, but at the start of this academic year students are currently packing boxes and organising their finances. many to begin new lives in new locations as undergraduate students. My daughter is one of them.

Saturday morning saw us with a car full of boxes and bags, with everything from saucepan to stapler, ravioli to rug, ready to hit the motorway and head off across country to Yorkshire. I had undertaken a brief repack before we left when I realised that some of the boxes were way too big to fit through doorways, and incredibly heavy to lift. With her student accommodation located on the sixth floor I had to think about getting stuff into its final location! 

We hit the road with plenty of time to spare to allow for hold-ups, delays and the inevitable coffee stops on the way. The sun was shining as we cruised across the North Pennines chatting and laughing. Mixed emotions between us, with excitement and a little apprehension from the new student, and a mother's realisation that this relationship would never be the same again. My little girl was heading out into the big wide world.

Arriving at the accommodation, there were mask-clad parents admist boxes and bags, with students checking-in, meeting new flatmates and a general buzz of excitement and eagerness for their new adventure. The inevitable chaos soon passed and thankfully, a lift enabled unloading the car to be a little easier as we headed for flat 30 in the city tower block.

Colour-co-ordinated bedding, a box of cleaning materials, food, snacks and the inevitable prosecco were suitably allocated their alloted place. The 'I've forgotten my pyjamas' comment was followed by a quick foray into Leeds to purchase some nightwear. Sorted. Fellow flatmates laughed and joked together as they finished organising their new living arrangements. It was time for me to depart. No tears (yet!) but pleased that they are starting their time together enjoying each others company and cementing their friendship. Next week their courses start, reality kicks in and University life will begin in earnest. Meanwhile, to university students everywhere...enjoy your relaxed first (Freshers) week in this new COVID world! Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

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