Don't Stay Gone Too Long

Didn't know how many sweaters and hoodies I had
Till I packed 'em in a box
Mama tried to hide the tears in her eyes
As I threw 'em in the back of the truck

As she hugged me tight, I knew I'd have to be the first to let go
'Fore I drove away, I heard her say: Be safe and, baby, don't

Stay gone too long
Don't forget to call
Hope you think of me when you catch all your dreams
Without you, this house ain't a home
Don't stay gone too long
No, don't stay gone too long

Not even twenty-one, I wasn't lookin' for love
No, you weren't a part of my plan
My only home was that wide-open road
Until I held your hand

It's late nights on the phone
Two different time zones
It's goodbyes and southbound planes
But I love you enough to wait

Don't stay gone too long
Don't forget to call
Hope you think of me when you catch all your dreams
Without you, this house ain't a home
Don't stay gone too long

2 AM when I got the call
Mama said: We don't got much time
So I flew home did what no one wants to
And told Grandma goodbye

As she hugged me tight, I knew she'd have to be the first to let go
Before it was time, she closed her eyes, I said: Please, don't

Stay gone too long
Wish Heaven had a phone
I'll see you in my dreams when you watch over me
Without you, this place ain't a home
Don't stay gone too long
Don't stay gone too long