Saying "Good-bye" to Middle School

I remember well, the day Jenica started Middle School.  She seamed so young, and I wasn't sure she was ready.  I wasn't sure I was ready.  But we both did fine, and here she is walking into that building for her final day of 8th grade classes.  To celebrate the last day of school for the 8th graders, several parents organized an end-of-the-year cookout for them (Blessing #725) and here are a few photos from the party.

Jenica & Ali 

Jenica & Jillian quickly found each other in the crowd. 

Jenica, trying to be taller than Ellie.  Sorry, but it'll never happen, honey.

Jenica & Bailea. 

Bailea moved away in 6th grade and her family moved back in time for their 8th grade year.  Such a blessing for Jenica to have her buddy back in town.  (#726)

Reece, Caden, Ellie, Zach, Jenica, Maddy, Bailea

 

The final day of school was pretty special.  (#727) They played a bunch of fun games, followed by an awards ceremony and 8th grade slide-show.  Each student received a big envelope full of notes of encouragement, congratulations, and reflection from teachers, parents, and others who care about our kiddos.  It was pretty special for Jenica.  None of the students knew about their letters in the envelope.  Jenica opened it up and right away noticed a letter from her daddy.  Such a sweet, touching moment.   It was so hard to write our letters to Jenica, because it became so emotional for us.  It actually was therapeutic for me, as I released her once again into God's big arms . . . and now, into the reality of her high school years. 

The 8th grade class at their final middle school dance.

Yesterday was the last day of school here in town.  I picked up Jillian first, and as she reached the car, she had tears streaming down her chubby little cheeks while saying, "I'm going to miss first grade."  Another little girl was sitting on the curb, waiting for her mom and overheard Jillian's comment.  She walked over to us, bent down to Jillian's level and said "I know how you feel.  I'm really going to miss third grade too."  Awwwww. . . melt my heart.  (#728)  After a few moments of hugging Jillian, we climbed in the car and drove to the middle school to help with Jenica's cook-out.  It was a day full of joy as we took in all the blessings showered down on us from above.