C. had his last day of school on Friday.

Fifth Grade = Finished.

I’m trying not to think about the fact that my oldest child is quickly making his way toward high school. Yes, I know we still have several years left, but I also know that those years will fly by. I look at my nephews who are wrapping up eighth and ninth grade and I remember them toddling over to our house at age 2 & 3, asking me — “Aunt ‘Frina” — for some soda.  (And as their aunt, I was happy to oblige.) I’m not sure exactly how they became high-schoolers while I wasn’t looking… but it happened.

And I know it’ll happen with C. Finishing fifth grade today, heading off to college tomorrow.

I know, I know. Enough with the melodrama. Okay.

I’ll turn to a little bragging instead.

It was a good year for C. He had the spelling bee win, and finished out the year on the high honor roll. We survived the many school projects, and he rocked the required history and book reports. He finished the year strong, and we’re proud of him.

And now…summer. Long endless days stretch before him, and I have a feeling he’s already felt a tad bit bored. (Though he wouldn’t dare tell me that, lest I assign him some chores.)

He’ll keep busy enough. Piano lessons (which don’t get a summer break), golf lessons, VBS, a writing workshop week. I’ll probably revert to our daily task cards, giving both of us some structure and direction. And if all goes as planned — and as long as my children behave themselves — I’m hoping to be a “fun mom” and plan one exciting outing per week. Maybe a zoo trip, a museum visit, a day spent bike-riding and picnicking at the park. Things like that.

But mostly, a change of pace. Relaxing evenings spent outside, or playing boardgames, or reading together. (It will be so nice to not have the whole homework thing looming over us every night.) Trips to the farm market to stock up on fresh fruit. Sprinklers and swimming pools, Wii games and bike rides, hours to read, time to explore. Ahh…summer.

Good job in fifth grade, C. You hung in there and worked hard. Dad and I are very proud of you, and we hope you have a fantastic summer!