Last Bell, Big Feels: And High School’s Done-Done -

Catching-self moment, part deux. This time, it was my baby cakes graduating from high school, and let me tell you… the pride? It hit different. More pride, more happiness, but also a deeper sting with the true end of an era: no more kiddos in school.

University feels different. Yes, I am (and was) ready to be done, but in that second as she crossed the stage, with me screaming her name, it was more than a whoosh of feelings. It was a whole shift.

The weather showed its entire arse, and not in a cute way, but by raining sideways, even hitting us under the covered outdoor stage. Then the cold rolled in like it had its own score to settle. The sun didn’t peek out, not even once. But even with a freezing, yet eager, audience, awkward cap tilts, hair poofed-up and reaching to the Gods, some blurry photos and hugs with cheesy grins, it was still a most beautiful day. I was glad for the shortened, but still poignant, speeches. At least my feet were happier this time, wrapped in leather over-the-knee boots and tucked under a trench coat for some minimal warmth.

The best speech, at least to me, reminded, or maybe informed, these newly minted adults that many of them are on the cusp of being able to vote for the first time. Some, like my kiddo, are still 17. In today’s world, I clapped loud and proud at that reminder. This arena of 400+ seniors… no, wait, graduates, really are the future.

Yes, this marks the end of high school for my youngest, college is up next, but first: beach time, with her core besties. She has a part-time job, but I hope she enjoys the summer with friends. With new experiences, or simply her own company, however she chooses. No rush. No pressure.

After some delicious Thai food with family and friends, we headed home for cupcakes this time, lemon, key lime, red velvet, and a few others that were demolished too quickly to even remember. A perfect sugar high to pair with the high of hitting this next milestone.

Big love and big ups to both my girls and all the graduates across the globe, in every path: academic, trade, service, and the new solopreneurs. You did it. This is just another new beginning. There’ll be plenty more. Some expected, some out of nowhere. But every challenge, big or small, will grow you closer to whoever you decide to be.

And for all the parents, siblings, extended family, and friends, we’re here in the front row, cheering through it all.