Lurching Around
On Wednesday morning, I will leave my oldest child in first grade and my son in kindergarten, and will walk home with my youngest, who suddenly doesn't seem so little.
Today, I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that I get a final chance to see my dear friend who is visiting from New Zealand. It had been two years since the last visit, and will likely be two years before the next chance to see one another. We spent an enjoyable evening eating Thai Food and chatting, just my friend, her beau and me.
I always miss her, of course, but seeing her has made the missing more raw and painful. In some ways, it is easier if I don't actually have to wish her bon voyage. Either way, it adds to the swirling emotions that have me lurching around, tripping over my own feet as I try to get myself ready for the surge of busy activity rolling my way.
Tomorrow morning, I will attend the annual kindergarten parents meeting, where we sign up for snack weeks and go over the nuts and bolts of the program. I want to plan a fun activity for the last day of summer, so that we don't spend the day fussing with backpacks and new shoes. Maybe a picnic at the park? Not that my kids actually eat anything, when playing is an option...how did I get three children who would rather dangle from the monkey bars than lay on a blanket eating finger-foods? (I'm glad for it, but it makes picnics a PITA.)
Tomorrow evening I am taking my sister, my brother and his girlfriend to see Ben Folds, Ben Lee and Rufus Wainwright. I'm excited but conflicted. The kids, the first day of school... last year it was very emotional for me and my oldest. It will be fine. My husband will be on task, and no matter what time I drag my hiney into the house, I'll be up early the next morning to get everyone ready and walk them to school.
The beginning of the school year has always felt like New Years to me. Everything is new and exciting. The hopes and fears are tangible. New clothes, fresh paint, friends old and new...
laller laller laller laller laller
I think I need another cup of coffee, stat.
Comments
I remember it too well. You feel like everything has to be just perfect and your kids turned out like well-dressed little dolls. Sigh. Now I just hope my youngest shows up for her first day of grade 11 with enough clothes on not to get arrested. Okay, that's an exaggeration...
laller laller indeed. Add a little Kaluha to that coffee doll. You deserve it.
Posted by: Dawn | August 22, 2005 1:17 PM
A good friend just saw the Folds/Wainwright show in L.A. this weekend and said it was GREAT. Also said Rufus was less animated than normal and Folds was p.h.e.n.o.m.e.n.a.l.
Have fun!
Posted by: Lin | August 22, 2005 3:14 PM
1. I suddenly want thai food
2. When my first went to the kindergarten I burst into tears. When my second went I smiled.
I am sure that when my third goes, I will fall to the ground in a fit of hysterical happiness, quickly get up and do something ALONE.
Posted by: clickmom | August 22, 2005 4:23 PM
I love good friends. Visits from out-of-town buddies of old are treasured times.
Posted by: Katie Burke | August 22, 2005 8:30 PM
Hey...what park are you going to? Kim and our little one would love to join you! She'll be home around 1. Let us know!!
Ren
Posted by: Ren | August 22, 2005 8:43 PM
Know how you feel. One of my bestest friends is returning from overseas next week. Can't wait!!
Posted by: sara | August 23, 2005 12:46 AM
Hope tomorrow isn't too stressful
Posted by: Bec | August 23, 2005 1:34 AM
I am VERY jealous of you going to Rufus, etc. I saw him play with Ben Folds and Guster last year and it was awesome. Have FUN.
Posted by: Kate | August 23, 2005 8:17 AM
This is really a busy, angst-filled time of the year. So many emotions, and plans, and good-byes and hellos. Why does everyone carry on about New Year's Day? The First Day of School is really so much more of a milestone.
Posted by: Melanie Lynne Hauser | August 23, 2005 9:46 AM
For some reason all of that activity made me very tired.. except the walking your kids to school - that sounded very.. nice.
Posted by: Holli | August 23, 2005 12:57 PM
My oldest's first day of 1st garde was yesterday. I felt sick all day. Now, on day #2, I know she likes it and can handle being there akl day, incuding lunchtime. But her little sister is going crazy with out her.
Have fun at the concert! I love Rufus.
Posted by: Marcia | August 23, 2005 2:20 PM
My kids aren't even in school yet and I can feel for ya...and for some reason I feel compelled to take my kids back to school shopping- And myself, as well! Old habits die hard...
Posted by: Kristen | August 23, 2005 5:32 PM
Hope your day was all you hoped. I am looking forward to the first day of school almost as much as my girl! Bear doesn't start preschool until a week later. A loooong week later!
I have so many friends who are flung all over the planet it seems. Reunions with them are always so bittersweet. Enjoy your time with her as much as you can, hon!
Posted by: buffi | August 23, 2005 10:14 PM
Hi! Cracked up immediately at your dinner on the head/margarita comment, and then when I saw you have kids very similar to the ages of mine, and that you are listed as one of Super Mom's BFFs, as am I in the rankings now, I just knew you and I were destined to meet as well! I just posted over at my site my thoughts on the first day of school too... over at Manic Mom.
Maybe meet you at Melanie's book signing? Stephanie
Posted by: stephanie elliot | August 24, 2005 7:36 AM
my only daughter is a lil over 1 and am already thinking when i can get her into kindergarten!! its just that she hates being alone. she wants company- lots of company! i cant take her to her grans everyday...! then agin, who knows...she might not even like school!
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