School's out

My children will be out of school this Thursday. Hooray! They are looking forward to no homework, later nights, and sleep- in mornings. My daughter finishes seventh and my son his freshman year. I so tenderly remember taking them to school for their first day of kindergarden. I know exactly what they wore, how their hair was and what backpack they carried. I still feel the lump in my throat as they made the walk down that hall. Quick, bright eyes meeting mine to say they would be fine. Stumbling to find the right words to say. I saw they were confident they should stay. I barely could speak to my husband as we walked to our car. Thinking how did we get here, so fast were the years. I've always been so proud to pick my children up from school. I knew who they were and what they offered each day. I connect with their eyes as they walk to the car, can't wait to hear about the day. I cherish all the stories thev've told. The good, the funny, the sad and the bad. I lock it all away and listen for more. Soon the time will come when my driving services won't be needed anymore. My son will be so tall he stoops to get in the car. My daughter will be a teenager moving on to more things. I will remember their eyes, their hair and their heart. I will remember the stories of boyfriends and girls. About practice and lunches, clothes and talking. Discussing grades, projects and teachers. Disappointments and achievements. School will be out this Thursday. I will be there waiting in line. I will smile with a heart that is heavy with the truth, that one day I won't be needed to take them home, so I will be there and drive slower on the way home.