Summer Band

My daughter is at summer band practice today. So? Most of you would think... what in the world does that have to do with anything? Well, it's the beginning of her last year in high school band. Her last year in high school. Her last year as my little girl (ok, maybe she's not so little anymore - but still). Usually, I love the beginning of the school year - I'm sure I'll talk more about that later... but this year, it's bittersweet for me. The beginning of a great new school year - yet the beginning of my baby's SENIOR year!

The senior year part is good. I loved watching my son enjoy the fun of his senior year, and I'm sure I'll love watching her do it too. We've already had one fun day taking senior pictures and the shopping before hand, doing hair, a little makeup (she hates makeup). It was fabulous being with her... just enjoying the occasion. But unfortunately, now I know.. that senior year part is going to go by FAST - that part. Not so good.

When my son was about to begin his senior year my mother told me I was really going to enjoy this new time coming in my life and she's a very wise woman so I'm sure she's going to be right... someday! But right now, I'm NOT enjoying this, I DON'T want her to grow up, I DO want them to live here forever!!! Ok, maybe not live HERE... but how 'bout next door?

I have survived one child's freshman year away at college (he's back home now going to school at the local community college, probably for at least a year to save money to go back to the university) but I didn't really like it when he was gone. There were times when he was homesick (not that he said that openly), there were times he struggled with his classes, there were car troubles and worrying about the money... I just didn't like it much. I know that it was very good for him. He had a good time, learned a lot, made good friends.. and is ready to get back to it. But damn, when he goes... she'll be going too. Yuk.

Mom says it's going to be ok. I'm trying to trust her. This beautiful young lady, who just yesterday was my beautiful little girl - is growing up quickly. I'm having a hard time keeping up.