It's Almost Over

My personality type is infamous for starting strong. We like new beginnings, the creative process, and the exploration of different environments. On the flip side, we tend to fizzle out at the end of projects.

So it wasn't terribly surprising when my oldest son said to me, "we're almost through this, Mom." He was cheering me on. He was also commenting on the date - the first week of May of his senior year of high school. For him, this would be a week full of AP exams, rehearsals, and meetings.

Still, I wasn't sure exactly which "this" he was referring to. I'm in the middle of many "near the finish line" situations.

My husband is due to return from another business trip. Just like the last time he was away, this was a looooong stretch of weeks full of trials. Two dead lambs, a misstep that killed the family dog, and on his side, an accident that banged up his face and caused him to lose some teeth.

I just made the last piano lesson payment and the last installment on a boy's class trip to Albany. I was certainly glad to be through with those ongoing obligations.

The Spring 2014 semester is nearly over. My grades are due in two days.

The school year is almost over for the little ones too. It has been a challenging year marked by bullying and academic struggles. They have hated homework, the hot lunch program, and the bus rides. I have been frustrated by ripped uniform pants, a lack of communication with teachers, and what I perceive as little help/slow progress with their reading.

A plumber came this morning to evaluate the water and drainage situation for our downstairs bathroom. At the same time he looked at what it would take to install our dishwasher. How I would love for our hand dish-washing days to be over!

And yes, J (18) is about to graduate. He is about to conduct his senior pieces in both chorus and orchestra. We received a notice that the local community college is recognizing his work in their ACE program. We're making big plans for his graduation party.

This beautiful, wonderful chapter of his childhood is indeed, almost over.