Continuation Anticipation

In early June, Jay will have a ceremony that marks the continuation from 5th grade into middle school.  It is hard not to be excited for her because she has been looking forward to a new school, new friends, a fresh start for some time now.  In true Jay fashion, she was ready for middle school in 4th grade. So, the realization that Jay is so ready for this transition softens the blow to my Mommy heart.  Until I start thinking too hard about how fast the 11 years I have shared with my firstborn have gone by.

This is just another practice in letting go.  The earliest memories I have of letting go, the hardest ones, were when I had to leave her for her first day at a new daycare center.  She didn't cry, she smiled and waved goodbye then toddled over to a shelf of toys - at nine months.  Her first day of kindergarten I cried.  How on Earth had five years breezed by?! She was the picture of confidence, having chosen her cute first day outfit and hairstyle.  It's hard to let her go and grow, every step has been hard, but she faces each change in her life with such excitement and zeal that it has become contagious!

In short, I can't wait for Jay's continuation ceremony.  She's ready, she's well-prepared, she still talks to me about things going on in her life, and she has such a good head on her shoulders.  What more could any mother ask for? I think I am reminded DAILY of the brilliant quote, "The days are long, but the years are short." I am so proud of my daughter and although the years truly seem so short, I have enjoyed every moment I have spent learning and loving through her eyes.