The twins graduate from 8th grade at St. Joseph's tomorrow. For the past 8 years I've had first three, then two girls to drive to and pickup from school. I've had Band and Christmas concerts and after school sports events to attend. I've had school planners to sign every morning, and homework to hear about in the evenings.
All done after tomorrow.
It's a big change for them, going off to high school next fall. The shock will be tempered by the presence of their older sister, who is a senior, and their father, who is a chemistry teacher. They will suddenly need cloths, and shoes, and have the right to chose these themselves. They will be in an incoming class of almost 1000 students, instead of a graduating class of 26.
Big changes changes for me too. Everyone will be leaving the house together next year, earlier than this year. The house will be empty. I'll leave by myself, and go straight to work. I can stay late at work instead of leaving at 4 to get the girls.
I sit here thinking about all this, sensing some pressure within but unable to take time to understand it. Tears? Terror? Music or poetry? I don't know and don't have time, even though I should have more time now than ever.
This is also the time of year for ordinations and professions, and vocation retreats. We actually have a regional conference of Vocation Directors here at our retreat house this week. They give me the idea that I, and moms in my position, need a Graduation Retreat. Maybe just a day, but a weekend would be good too. Maybe next year I can make one happen here. When my own girls reach this milestone, I am absolutely giving them a retreat.
I just wish I had the time to do it myself.
