With baby-growing and Oregon-preparing, I kind of blanked on the fact that I usually try to take the last day of school off from work. Riley said it was "still special" that I be there, so I took an early lunch (and prayed that disaster wouldn't keep me there late) and made it with time to spare!
I heard them singing "Do Your Ears Hang Low?" with big smiles on their 8-and 9-year-old faces. It reminded me to treasure the last bits of true childhood innocence and silliness - they are turning into such big kids! Riley saw me as I peeked in the door and his face just lit up. I had told him that I'd do my best to be there, but had also prepped him it might not work out.
Class let out and he walked straight to me with a smile I know too well - "I'm really excited and proud of myself, but trying not to show it toooo much". I gave him a big squeezy, told him he looked like a third grader, and that I was so very proud of him for all the work he did this year. Of course he immediately wanted to look at his report card (and compare with friends - so competitive!). We chatted a bit more before his buddies came over so they could head to Rec. I got a wave and another big smile before they headed off; chatting about Pokemon, Mindcraft, and whatever else second grade grads chat about.
Such the perfect mix of sweet affection and 8-year-old independence. Still savoring those 10 minutes. Yes, the pregnancy hormones are flowing strong!
