I have been having a hard time with the thought of Dillon going to middle school this year. I have been wondering why this is such a big deal to me....but I think it is because of his amazing elementary school. It really wasn't a normal public school, it has this amazing big family feel to it and his teachers were simply wonderful. For example, the last day of school, all the teachers line up outside where the buses are leaving and the walkers walk by. As Dillon walked by, each teacher that had him for each grade, stepped out of the line, gave him a hug and told him how special he was and how glad they were to get to know him...that they knew he would do amazing things in life.....how can I not be sad?

He had 3 different principals during his years there. Some I liked more than others, but one would sing to them on their birthdays if they brought him a treat. They could choose country western style, opera, rock, or rap. The same principal was constantly subbing instead of calling a sub so that he didn't lose touch with the classroom. He would write songs about us volunteers and sing to us at a special tea. At the beginning of each day, he stood at the door and welcomed each student by name as they came through the door.

The last principal also made the effort to get to know everyone and had the courage to do a tap dance for the student talent show. He also gave an amazing speech to us parents at the graduation about an eagle and eaglet. He said that the ultimate act of kindness is for the eagle to push the eaglets out of the nest so that they can learn to fly. Then the kids all stood up and sang, "I believe I can fly".

So now it is time for me to let Dillon fly on I know, but wow is it hard.