Wasn't it just yesterday I stood in this colorful classroom serving cookies and punch and celebrating Kendall's graduation from kindergarten? She was so ready for 1st grade - for sitting at real desks, for skipping naps, for moving one chapter closer to this past Friday, when she and her classmates accepted the final diploma the Lago Vista school system has to offer.
And just like back then, she is so ready for this new chapter - for moving into a dorm, for navigating the huge campus, for moving through another exciting chapter of her life.
Even though I'm excited for her, and relieved we're through with these school days, I expected to choke up a little at the ceremony, watching her cross that stage looking so grownup and confident. But I surprised myself - I didn't feel even a teeny bit weepy! How could I cry when she's radiating relief, happiness, excitement, anticipation? This has been one of my goals for the past 17 years, and I've succeeded! I know there's so much more waiting for her out in the big world, and I know she's ready to take it on. That makes me feel so good.
Now come August...and I've dropped her and her junk off in her dorm and Tom and I are heading home to a REALLY empty house...well, there might be some tears shed then, because I know I'm going to miss her. But I'm not going to think about that now - we have the whole summer together ahead of us, to prepare for that day and the next chapter. And that feels good, too.
Leaving the house for the last day of high school...recognized for graduating on the Distinguished Plan...diploma in hand...three up, three down...celebrating with cake (thanks, Mary Kay!)
