AAVE Trip BLOG » The Best Decision A Mom Can Make
October 2, 2007
The Best Decision A Mom Can Make
Posted by Jenny at AAVE in : General AAVE Trip BLOG , trackback
Journeys that matter, no question. A life changing positive experience, without a doubt. I started this process believing I was making a really good decision for my daughter, a 13-yr old only child of divorced parents. We were extremely close, I believed she would trust my decisions. Not the case, she wanted no part of it. A much harder journey transpired, but together we traveled to Seattle and after meeting the group we said our goodbyes and I traveled home alone. As a parent, it felt as if someone had ripped my heart from my chest and said okay, you made this decision, it is your turn, you wait three weeks and see what the outcome will be. She was a reluctant participant but I had faith, AAVE had been around for 31 years, they had all the accreditations, I loved what I read ands saw, I talked to the staff, had a great conversation prior with the trip leader and ultimately the overall message back to me was to have faith, believe, and trust my decision.
Fast forward, three weeks later at the airport on her return. Thirteen new friends and three new role models - the trip leader and two co-leaders. Sobbing, she was conflicted about being home, I totally understood. I still beg for her to tell me a new story or repeat one I have already heard. She had an opportunity to be herself and to explore the person she could become. She had a blast, they were outdoors and learned to appreciate what that meant, they got to be explore towns and cities, they did a little bit of everything, all positive and all fun. As a parent, these are wings that we cannot give without the village of people that choose to teach, be a summer camp counselor, or mentor. Ultimately, this experience strengthened my bond with my daughter. A journey that mattered, absolutely, I cannot thank you enough.
Best,
Kathleen Daly
Zoë’s mom
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