The day before

It's the afternoon before Stephen's first day of school. I've packed, unpacked and repacked his book bag about 7 times already, all of his supplies have been bought and labeled, his uniform is pressed and ready, he has the perfect hair cut and new pair of shoes, we've been to open-house and he says he's ready and excited to go. All the details have been tended to...every T crossed, every i has a dot. And now here I sit with nothing else to tend to in preparation. It's only now that I realize how bittersweet this time is. My heart swells each time I look at my son. There's a young man where my little baby once stood. There's no denying the fact that he's growing every day - bigger and bigger until one day I'll have to reach up to embrace him. Letting go isn't easy, but it's necessary. I'm more proud of him than I can put into words.

I'm here for you, my Stephen. Grow, sweet boy. At every turn you'll find me there - cheering you on. I love you.