Tomorrow marks a significant chapter in my life. Tomorrow my eldest child embarks on the exciting (and kinda scary) adventure of college life. I've known this day was coming for quite some time, but, truth be told, I've been brushing it off as just another step in the natural progression of life. After all, kids grow up, move out, and start their journeys – it's the circle of life, right?
I've been telling myself, "I survived college, so I can survive this too." But as the day draws nearer, the enormity of the moment is starting to sink in. She's only moving 20 miles away, a comforting thought, but the reality that she is moving out is now hitting me pretty hard. It is January. Usually, January's weather is filled with chilly air and rain, but – we are looking at a potential ice storm starting tonight. Talk about adding an extra layer of complexity to an already emotional event....ice storm, really?
We are nestled in a valley in Oregon, at an elevation of about 400 feet. In the coming hours, the predictions state, temperatures will plummet, accompanied by a substantial mix of precipitation. We are anticipating total snow accumulations ranging from 1 to 6 inches and ice accumulations up to 0.5 inches, our peaceful valley is bracing for a winter spectacle. We may encounter power outages and tree damage from the ice. Driving will be difficult, if not hazardous. Luckily, it sounds like the road crews are prepared for this storm.
I have been homeschooling both of my kids over the last three and half years, which has allowed her to finish high school a semester early. Looking forward to moving in these conditions has turned my emotions inside out. I'm trying my best to keep it together for her, creating a positive experience despite the turmoil inside me. But an ice storm?
This is a lot harder than I thought it would be. So, how am I coping? Well, I'm tackling chores while sneaking in moments to shed a few tears. I'm praying to God, asking for strength and blessings, and am trying to surrender it all to Him.
In the past, just for fun, I made a tincture of rose petals and linden soaked in rum. While vodka is the usual choice for tinctures, I prefer rum. I was glad for that whim, as this morning I put about 1.5mL of that into my coffee to help ease my heart into gently being open to handling the emotions in front of me. It probably would have tasted better in an herbal tea, but I like my morning coffee.
Between prayers and tears, I am sneaking sniffs of a blend of cedarwood, Siberian fir, lavender, sweet orange, and frankincense essential oils. This aromatic combination serves as a soothing balm for my emotions, allowing me to navigate these imminent changes with grace and openness.
Other ideas to help get through emotionally difficult times:
A foot soak can help ease away stress and anxiety
1/2 cup of Epsom salt (or a sea salt)
1 drop of frankincense - quiets the mind and encourages emotional reflection and healing
1 drop of lavender - calming and soothing
1 drop of cedarwood - builds confidence
1 Tbsp of castile soap of jojoba oil - carrier for the essential oils
Warm water to fill a foot basin
Blend the essential oils into the castile soap (or jojoba oil). Add all ingredients to the basin. Soak your feet in the foot bath for 10-20 minutes. This is a great option for a bonding experience, simply make enough foot soaks for everyone involved, and take time to relax together.
An herbal tea can also help with issues of the heart.
Emotional Heart Tea
1 part sage - brings motivation, calms feelings of overwhelm
1 part linden - helps the heart handle grief
1 part holy basil (tulsi) - releases anxiety, stimulates circulation
1 part lemon balm - eases nervous tension
Bedtime Calm Heart Tea
2 parts chamomile - soothing and comforting
1 part passionflower - relieves physical and emotional tension
1/2 part lavender - relaxing
As the ice storm looms outside, emotions are brewing within me. Yet, in the midst of it all, there's a subtle acknowledgment that this is a moment of growth for both my child and me. God willing, the move will go smoothly, we will all adjust to our new routines, and we will be better for it. Here's to embracing change and navigating life's storms with faith, and a touch of homemade remedies.
Joshua 1:9 (ESV) "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
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