The end of an era

Graduation. 

Jack has been practicing for and anticipating this day for months.  He’s been singing songs, reciting poems, and talking about his special outfit (i.e. cap and gown).  Last night I took out pictures of my college graduation to show him my special outfit, and to talk about the significance of graduation.  He knew it was a big deal – that there had been a lot of preparation at school – but the actual meaning of ‘graduation’ hadn’t been explained.  We talked about how big he’s getting, and about how he’s done such a great job through this part of his schooling that he gets to move on to big boy school.  This is a big deal I told him, a very special day!

And it was.

Waiting for the graduates to arrive.

His (uncomfortable) walk to his spot on the bleachers.

The moment he found my face in the crowd.  His expression changed in that instant.  Loved that.  Might have shed a tear.  Or two.

Kingsley was such a great cheerleader, watching her brother intently. I didn’t get to look over at her that much during the ceremony, so to see her paying such close attention melts my heart.  Wonder if she was envisioning herself up there one day, just like I was.

After singing their songs, each student was introduced individually and their when-I-grow-up-aspirations were read aloud.

“Jack Hall. When Jack grows up he wants to be an explorer and artist, because he gets to look at nature and draw dragons.” That’s my boy!

Class pictures – with and without Ms. Leah & Ms. Daisy.

 

Pictures with some of his closest friends, including his best buddy Brent.  From the first day that Jack switched from the afternoon to the morning, Brent and Jack have been the best of friends.  I am so thankful for Brent, who made Jack’s switch seamless.

The final walk with cap and gown.

What’s this paper for Mommy?

We tried taking a few pictures after the ceremony, but it was SO HOT!! And Jack was excited to get home to ice his cake.

Our masterpiece.  Just what he wanted…orange and blue icing.  A beauty, isn’t it?

Best. Present. Ever. Thanks Mimi and Papa!

Kingsley recognized that it’s not often she sees Grandma, Mimi and Papa all together.  So naturally, we made sure to get them all together for a picture!  (Note Jack’s change of clothes.  Little stinker switched his collared shirt and madras shorts for his “comfy clothes” without my knowledge.  Someone’s going to be in for a rude awakening come fall when there’s actually a dress code!)