Technology withdrawal - day 2 on the river.

September 20, 2013

Friday on the river dawned wet and grey.

We knew the girls would arrive later in the day so we headed to town for a few things forgotten - can opener and a certain item of clothing (Same item as once forgotten by middle child on another trip) for DH.

[DH had given me grief as I packed. "Are you sure you have everything?" "Did you bring everything you need?" And I admit that one year I left my suitcase on the floor in our kitchen. The trip to town that year was for an entire wardrobe. But this year, it was the old man who goofed up. He will not be allowed to forget it. What are families for, but to remind you of who you are - to remind you of your foolishness and foibles?]

The town was 30 miles away (south and west) and allowed us a moment of cell access. We are spoiled. We curse technology and our addiction to it, but our constant connection gives us a sense of control, a feeling of comfort - however false. Texts went out to the family. And we heard briefly from the siblings and then girls as we related that it was raining on us once again.

After a browse in the  antique/junque store we headed back to our cabin to wait for the girls.

We waited, and waited, and waited.

We realized that the girls could have had a late start or they could have run into bad weather (or both). But we started to worry.

Finally we decided to split up. DH would drive the route the girls should be taking (He would travel north and then east). In doing so he would also find himself back within cell range and he would be able to call - them or others who might know what had happened. I stayed at the cabin. If the girls came I would be there. If not, I would wait for DH or a message from him.

Before long (perhaps 30 minutes) DH drove up. "They are checking in."

He had driven the route for only a few minutes when he observed a purple Toyota coming towards him. He turned around and drove back toward the cabin. But when the vehicle was not at our place, he turned again heading back up the road. Then he saw the purple Toyota once again - heading back towards him from the turn-off to the low water crossing.

Of course the girls had driven to check the level of the river.

They reported their trip had been a nightmare. The clouds had opened on them and they were forced to pull off the highway twice. The pace of travel had slowed to a crawl. A four hour trip turned into a six hours on the road.

You teach yourself not to borrow trouble. Worry is a waste of energy as it changes nothing.You cannot walk through life fretting. But I am a bit of a fretter. And I succumbed today. I am sure the girls saw the relief on my face when they walked through the door.

This parent business is not for sissies.

And how does that saying go - A child's first step is a step away from you. And a parent must let them go - and be brave about it. It is easier said than done when the rain pours and the children are late.