Nobody ever said this parenting gig would be easy.

What a paradox it is raising children in an effort to have a close relationship with them, knowing that separation between parent and child is inevitable and is necessary for a child becoming an adult.

Thank goodness the separation is gradual from when they are babies and doesn't come all at once - imagine how difficult that would be!

My teenaged daughter, who once started off her life just at the other end of the umbilical cord that we used to share, is now halfway around the world from me. The distance between New Zealand and Norway feels longer than it ever has - especially when her first birthday that we've ever been separated for came along.

It's only 86 days till her return (but who is counting?) and she's now 1/4 of the way through her trip.

My heart aches with missing her, yet I know that studying abroad at this time is great for her personal development, her blossoming independence, and her unfolding sense of self. I'm proud of her for her courage and her maturity. And I miss her like crazy. It really is a both/and situation.

Holding on to and savouring precious moments together and letting go at the same time - not easy. It's a learning and a journey for the parent just as much as it is for the child.

At least it's still a few years until she flies the nest for good. This is just a test flight where she's stretching her wings. This proud mama can stretch that far for now.