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Claudette LeBlanc's avatar

My how she’s grown into a beautiful young lady. She is so very fortunate to go on these trips. She obviously loves you so much mama. That’s a great thing, teenagers nowadays aren’t very nice or respectful. Both of your girls are and all that credit goes to you and Mike. Continue to do what you all do and love and document as much of life as you can. Love that you share your family with all of us. Enjoy the rest of your trip Mazzy and camp Harlow💕💕💕💕💕

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

Thank you! I do feel very lucky that my kids are very kind and respectful. I'm not sure what we did right to make them that way, but I'll take it!

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Carrie's avatar

I'm not looking forward to the transition to the empty nest phase (in two years for me). Having twins means both my children leave at the same time. The day they went to kindergarten, my first thought was what if their college move in days are on the same day and they go to different colleges? But, the saving grace is that I know they will both keep in touch with us when they leave. And if I send them a daily picture of the dog, I know I'll get a response!

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

Oof- the twins thing must be really tough. We had visiting day at camp the same day for a few years and that was a really hard one but we made it work. The daily picture of the dog will be what keeps us connected for sure! It's like magic!

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jordis's avatar

Honestly, thank you so much for this post. I DO dread the empty nest phase and this perspective really helps! I especially appreciate your point that there are so many more ways to stay in casual touch than when we were young.

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

Yes, I realized that as I was writing it. Leaving home is very different than it was then. I feel like I would have kept in better touch with so many people from my life if we had easier access to everyone like we do now.

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Chelsea Kilpack's avatar

It’s a testament to your relationship that she wants to stay in touch. Those photos got me good *humph*

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

I'm relieved to know that the lack of camp letters wasn't an indication of what was to come!

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Joy Mitchell's avatar

My youngest is on a two week trip to Paris and England. I was thrilled to realize he’d keep in touch and share so much more then when he's home! 😍 He’s just turned 20, and is traveling alone, (we have family in England he’s bounced around to) but it’s been the most incredible experience for him! Can’t wait until he comes home Sunday! 😍

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

Yes! I feel like I'm getting more updates and info than I would normally at home!

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Najwa's avatar

This post made me cry. She’s so beautiful then and now

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Ilana Wiles's avatar

Thank you- I agree!!

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