Bolt Upright

Today was Sport’s last day of school, and it began with his kindergarten graduation ceremony. I was determined not to be the type of mother who cries at that sort of thing.

I failed miserably.

In my defense, I was just fine until the end. Parading out with his class? Fine. Singing their songs? Fine. Speeches by the teachers about how much they love our kids and their wishes for the future? Fine. Watching him parade out again to receive his certificate, this time in a little blue cap, and thinking about his ababa who so desperately wanted this child to go to school? Borderline, but still ok.

But then it was over, and I took some photos of Sport in his cap with his little diploma. And he wanted a picture with his beloved teacher, so he waited his turn where she was kneeling down for photos with the kids. When it was Sport’s turn, he bounded up and hugged her. Their love is mutual, and I know she is upset he is leaving the school. She said, “Hi, handsome”, turned to face the camera with him, and promptly broke down in tears. And that was it, I was done for. Note to self: next time, pack kleenex, no matter how determined you are not to be *that* mom.

Fortunately the day ended on a better note. Yesterday we had visited Sport’s new school for next year so he could meet his grade 1 teacher and some of the kids. The visit went really well, I liked the teacher, and he made a couple of friends right away. Today we stopped by after school to pick up his school supplies list for next year – and discovered the grade 1-3 kids in a massive water fight on the front lawn. The teacher saw us, correctly interpreted Sport’s look of longing, and without a word handed him a spray bottle and a water balloon. He flung himself into the chaos without a backwards glance, and I was thrilled to hear at least 4 or 5 kids calling out hello to him (and getting his name right!). Ten minutes later the fun was over, and I was left with a soaking wet, laughing child, who said, “Mom? Mom, I think this new school is going to be VERY good.” Me too, buddy, me too.