"It is the familiar that usually eludes us in life. What is before our nose is what we see last." ~William Barrett, American philosopher and professor.
Relevant words, especially for these days...celebrating fathers, remembering a friend's son, and looking ahead to when I really take Kendall to college...in only a few short weeks.
These are hectic, heartbreaking, busy days and I can't write much tonight, but I spent the day with Kendall...sorta...trying to remember not to take this time and these opportunities for granted.
She went her way with the other incoming freshman for orientation and I went mine with the other parents who were facing an emptier nest come August. I felt like an old hand at this - I skipped most of the sessions - mostly I wandered around campus (but not too far from shade and air-conditioning!) taking pictures or just sitting and watching people. I also grabbed the opportunity to visit the Harry Ransom Center, home of a Gutenberg Bible and the very first photograph. An awesome photography exhibit of the works of Fritz Henle took up most of the first floor, inspiring me to hone my limited skills with my camera.
I crossed paths with Kendall three times during the day...once, to sign for her to get her new ID...once, purely by accident in the Student Union...and last, at the barbecue held in the shadow of the Texas Memorial Stadium. That's where I left her...she'll be spending the next few days getting acquainted with her future new home, and I returned to a house empty of kids - both of us getting a taste of what's waiting just around the corner.