Didn't know how many sweaters and hoodies I had
'Til 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 a.m. 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