Goodbyes

Friday was Lauren's last official day at school.  She has had an undercurrent of stress over the last couple of weeks, as she prepared for the last day.  We have had the most phenomenal experience this year, and we have had truly wonderful teachers.  Not surprisingly, our prayers about the girls' K4 experience were answered, with both Lauren and Gracie receiving teachers perfectly suited to their needs and personalities.  The only downside to our school is that students transfer to their zoned elementary school after K4, and therefore, we are off to our next school, leaving our good friends behind.

Lauren's teachers, Miss Shelby, Ms. Terry and Ms. Venus, took turns hugging Lauren, telling her they loved her and telling her goodbye.  Lauren's face was as sad as I have ever seen, but she rallied when we walked to Gracie's class to pick her up.  The reality settled on her again in the parking lot.  While she was climbing into the car, she said, "Mommy.  I'll  never see them again." 

"Well," I said, "you'll see them Monday at graduation and again on Wednesday for Gracie's last day." 

She stared at me sadly.

"And," getting ready for a slight lie, I said, "you never know.  You might see them at a store some time.  Gracie saw one of her teachers at a store once!  Remember?" 

She shook her head "no". 

No, I don't  believe you.
No, even if it were true and I did see them, it wouldn't be the same. 

All of their teachers live in neighboring towns, making the possibility of a chance encounter slim, and one of Lauren's teacher is moving to another state after school ends. 

Lauren was better over the weekend.  We had our last softball game Saturday morning, and they had a choir program Sunday.  Busyness helps.  She will be a trooper during graduation tomorrow, and then we will focus on our summer (we are SO excited) and next year. 

Onward and upward.