The university countdown is real.
I’m finding it much harder this time than I did the first time, five years ago. I’m not sure whether it’s because he’s my baby boy, or because he’s the last, but I’m finding it tough!
We did the obligatory IKEA visit yesterday. We went in not really knowing what was wanted and left with two trolleys full. Someone certainly found their rhythm once we got there.
Admittedly, some actual furniture was required this time. House shares are a little more sparse than university accommodation, apparently.
We had a mantra: if you don’t know what it is, you don’t need it.
On that basis, I fear not much cooking will be done. His desk set-up, however, will look not too dissimilar to the flight deck of the Starship Enterprise.
Unlike the first time we did this, candles and fairy lights weren’t on the list. He didn’t even want fake foliage in a pot! Priorities instead centred around display units for Lego and where he might be able to position his Xbox.
I desperately tried to encourage a throw or two for the bed. No interest whatsoever. Although we did manage a slightly patterned duvet cover.
The small wins.
Tomorrow we head to Sports Direct. His course requires all-black attire, which I suspect will be much easier to navigate than kitchen equipment.
Then there’ll be one final supermarket visit for jumbo bags of pasta, copious amounts of cheap baked beans and sausage casserole mixes. We have tried to teach him a few basic meals that are both nutritious and cheap. Whether any of them will actually be cooked remains to be seen.
And then the goodbyes start.
Gatherings with college friends as they all go their separate ways. Tea with school best friends he’s known since nursery. The obligatory dinner with grandparents.
I’m not quite ready to think about the trip down to Southend yet. I’m going to have to build myself up to that one.
For now, though, there are still fourteen days.
Let the two-week countdown begin.
The university countdown
This became a bit of a series as we counted down to our youngest leaving for university. If you’d like to follow the story…
Next: One Week to Go →
Leave a comment