Despite all of my preparations, the departure to university last September of my eldest child was.... well, frankly awful. A classic bittersweet experience, founded upon immense respect for the young woman she has become, tremendous pride in her achievements, vicarious excitement in anticipation of the experiences ahead... and a huge mama-shaped hole filled with longing to keep her close and safe.

More than six months have passed and we're both adjusting to the changes. I worry about getting the balance right between responding appropriately to her adult status and her obvious need at times to have the mothering of her childhood.

She moves from hall of residence to a shared house - well, two houses, fourteen people - next academic year. And I have a need to make a new quilt for her. This blog will hopefully chart the process.