Eldest Son graduates from high school today.
So, first, when did I get old enough to be the mother of a high school graduate? I’ve got mixed feelings about this – on the one hand, I think that unlike sometime in our agragrian past, high school graduation is pretty much a minimum (sub-minimum?) requirement for life today. I expect everyone to do it, kind of like I expect everyone to be able to read and pass sixth grade. I also am old enough to be part of the cohort that disdained graduation ceremonies as too establishment.
On the other hand, it’s nice to recognise a milestone, and to confirm to your young person that you’re proud of him for achieving it.
So we’re going to graduation, and he’s going to wear the cap and gown (his choice) and he and his best friend are having an open house/party in a couple of days. But he didn’t send out announcements and he seems genuinely confused when relatives ask him what he would like as a graduation gift (the most ambitious thing he’s requested is new Birkenstocks).
Sounds like you’ve raised a great son, Katja… you’ve both got a lot to be proud about. Congratulations!
The Birkenstocks, cap, and gown are all great subtle moves (I admit, I was slightly surprised with the cap and gown). Think of it like swing dancing… you want to keep steps small and stylized for the individual and maximum effect.
P.S. I really enjoy the new layout of your site. It’s very pleasing the eye.
Alaina, I hope you’re doing well! Thanks for the nice comment and thanks for your friendship with the boy.
Frankly, *I* can’t believe you’re old enough, either. ;>) Congrats… you must be so proud (and relieved) ;>). I really like the site redesign, too.