This bird has flown

[Kevy Baby]

I am the youngest of five, and the only son (yes, I have four older sisters). It seemed like every milestone that I hit (such as moving out) had a profound effect on my mother.

It is a bitterseet day for you -- you are glad to get the extra space, but you don't want to see your baby go. You want to see the boy become a mature responsible adult, but you worry about him on his own.

Accept that his first place (especially with boys) will be a disaster area. His first christmas tree may be decorated with beer cans.

But sit back and know that you have done your job. It is up to him to sink or swim.