This week is our first week of summer break. My daughter finished her last year of Elementary School today. We have spent the week saying goodbye to that time in her life. I found it hard to see this time in life end, while at the same time being so proud and full of excitement for her future.
The final day entire families come to say goodbye to each other and the teacher who played such an important role in the lives of our kids the past 4 years. My daughters first day of 1st grade was proceeded by the birth of her brother the day before. I remember
sitting in the hospital wishing I could see her start this stage in her life. I again had divided emotions. I was in the hospital holding the baby I prayed years for asking the Lord to allow us to have another child. Certainly I was thrilled to be there too.
Today as I looked around the class at many familiar faces we have grown to know and love it hit me how special it is the way the school system here is arranged. My daughter was blessed to have the same teacher who helped her learn how to read and write teach her history, geography and everything in between. It is no wonder that Mommies and students alike were crying as we all parted ways.
I was ok until we got home and I saw the gift the teacher had prepared for each student. I book full of pages in their own words describing who they were and contact information so they could remain in touch. All the students and important figures in their school life had participated. She also gave them a folder full of things she had saved from them for each years. A picture they drew as Kindergarteners visiting the school, first day photos and drawings they made from each year. Important tests and a record of all the field trips, and other neat things they had done. It touched me. I cried at her thoughtfulness.
Now our summer break begins. I hope to make it a meaningful time while allowing her to grow and reconnect with her friends!
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