Chapter 21

Our twenty-first (21st) anniversary coincided with K's first year of university. So many things going on these summer months that it's been all a blur.

The focus has primarily been on getting ready for the school fall term.  From sorting out the RESP, to getting into residence, and preparing and packing, to getting used to the fact that he won't be in the next room for a while.

It'll be an adjustment for all of us.  I'm sure he's looking forward to being on his own and feeling like an adult.  I'd been thinking about this day since last fall.  And it seems like the past 18yrs have happened so fast.  

But I know this will be a positive thing for all of us.  He'll have to take care of his own laundry, getting his own food, taking care of his own health.  He's on his own.   We have had a bit of trial run when was away for 2 weeks in EU for a history trip and then for 3 weeks in Ljubljana with Slovenksa Sola.  These next few months will build upon that.  I'm looking forward to seeing his evolution leading to the next chapter of his life.  No longer a kid, but a young adult.

This time in his own space with fellow TMU classmates & students.  It'll be an adjustment to new surroundings - not just living space, but learning space and focus.  I just hope he eats well and stays healthy, and has a great experience.

We didn't do anything special for our anniversary.  I had gone to Monte that morning to pick up some pastries.  We figure we'll plan something fun at a less stressful time.  When we can chill-lax and put our feet up.

The move went quite smooth.  We got there 10mins prior to the move in time and there was a a team of students not just for welcoming, but for expediting move in.   They had bins to take all of K's stuff up to the room and even gave us a parking map after we unloaded all of his stuff to park our car and then come back to the residence to set up his room.  The were even willing to help us carry stuff up.  

It was nothing like when I moved into residence back in the day, those many moons ago, it felt less hustle and bustle.   You got your key, and you moved your stuff in.  I didn't even have a computer.  There were a lot less students back then.  The pace nowadays feels feels so much faster than before.  So many more people, and everyone is in a hurry.  A big thanks to these students that were welcoming us and providing direction.  I wasn't expecting so many, and was impressed how helpful an engaged they all were. 

This residence was modern and and only a few yrs old (2018).  It wasn't cheap, but in line with current housing costs, it had everything taken care of from utilities, to wifi, and proximity to school.  The only exception was an included a meal plan.  Which wasn't a deal breaker since K can cook for himself, and there are so many choices for food in downtown TO, if they felt like eating out, but taking care of their own meals is the way to go and they don't have to go far to get stuff.   

The area around the residence isn't the nicest place in TO.  But after seeing the building, the staff, how mature and well organized they were.  I felt at ease as we left K there.  It looked like he was in a good and safe place. 

His residence is literally around the corner from where his classes would be, making me feel at ease if he is there late at night.  And if he needs to come home, he's a subway ride away.  I just hope he remembered to bring his key.

I'd wish him good luck.  But luck has nothing to do with getting through first year unscathed.  It's all about discipline, effort and organization.  If he can find this in him, to light the fire that will drive his own success.  Then I know he'll do fine. Better than fine.  

And he'll have fun, while he's at it.  And if you are having a tough time, go get extra help.

Do the best you can, and you'll have no regrets.