Teton Valley Days: Meanwhile ... Back in Andover, Part III (Brady)

On the last day of school, Friday June 20th, the Doherty Middle School 8th Graders had their "Farewell Ceremony." This has been a remarkable year for Brady. He's worked very hard and grown up so much. His grades have reflected this maturity, and his teachers (especially Mr. Bessette) comment often on what a great kid Brady is. This farewell ceremony marked an important milestone for Brady, especially as he prepares to head away to Gould Academy in the fall. His path will diverge from his friends' paths. I'm hopeful that some of the special friendships will stand the test of time and distance, and that Brady will reconnect with these friends when he is home. I suppose that Instagram (and other social media and texting) will help him stay connected as well!!

The celebration actually went on for more than 24 hours. Thursday night was the "8th Grade Farewell Dance," Friday morning was the ceremony and brief reception, Friday afternoon a group of kids went to the Grondins' home for a pool party (which lasted from about 12:30pm until about 7:30pm!), then finally they all met up at the AYS dance at the Old Town Hall Friday evening until 10pm. Brady then spent most of Saturday with John Racca, one of his closest friends. I deeply appreciate the role the Racca family has played in Brady's life, as they have welcomed him warmly into their home consistently since Brady and John became friends in 1st or 2nd grade!

We are all, maybe Brady most of all, looking forward to our summer in Idaho! This afternoon I will take all three kids to my parents to spend the night. That will give me an evening and a morning to wrap up a few things at home and at work. Then tomorrow afternoon we'll all have dinner at Markey's at Seabrook Beach (a longtime favorite of my family) and spend the night with my parents, who will generously get us to the airport early Tuesday morning for our 5:50am flight! Corbin will pick us up in Salt Lake City mid-day ... can't wait :-)

I am so happy to have closure on this past year. It's been a year where we have balanced the importance of valuing the present moment with the need to invest in opportunities for the future. It feels very good to watch each child create his/her closure on this year. I'm so proud of all three children. I feel very blessed.