Yesterday was Geetle’s Preschool Graduation.  It was our first ceremony of the type, as Pookie’s school did not have one (and he got sent home early on the last day of school anyway).  Geetle was very excited.  They talked about it all week at school.  They tried on the supply of gowns to see who got which one, they practiced how to walk in the line, take your diploma and pause so your mom could take your picture.   The ceremony took place in the all-purpose room at the school.  They hung a little banner and 3 balloons.  Nothing extravagant.  Each kid came forward and smiled as the teacher gave them their certificate.  Then they waited patiently for everyone to finish so they could throw their hats in the air and have a piece of cake.

We got a little homemade “Yearbook” which showed the kids on the first day of school (2 years ago for Geetle) and recently.  It includes a picture of each of Geetle’s friends and their signature.  She loves it.

I know things like this are cheesy.  It might be overkill to have a preschool graduation, but maybe not.  The kids loved it and it helped them close a chapter in their lives.  Many of these kids have been in the program for 2 -2 1/2 years.  Its going to be weird for them not to go back.  Also, this is an At Risk preschool program.  Geetle qualifies because she is the twin of a special needs child, one had (but outgrew) a speech impediment, some kids are English language learners, one is making the transition from foster care to an adopted family, others …who knows…but they qualified.   So, its a little more important to reward them and mark their accomplishments.

It was a fun night for us as a family too.

When I think of that tiny little 3 year old I drove to preschool on the first day….  (me) worried that she would have a pee accident or wander out the school’s front door, (her) worried that I would not come back and afraid of the unknown.   She has grown up alot since she started school.   So has Pookie.  I can’t go into all the ways how…or I will get all weepy…its too hot in this room to get all weepy.