The first of the lasts are underway in our house, with my eldest child graduating from primary school.
When I was in primary school in the 70s, we celebrated the last day of school with a frozen Sunny Boy and the advice to avoid getting pregnant or being stabbed in high school.
There was no pageantry, pomp or ceremony.
But these days, it is a big deal to say sayonara.
My daughter Avalon starting prep seems only a few years ago and I remember feeling my limb had been cut off when I had to leave my baby girl for her first day of school.
I cried and cried.
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But then so many unexpected wins came from school.
I met a whole bunch of the best humans in the form of mum friends who have my back like no one else in this world.
They cheer our whole family on and they help carry the mental load by doing things such as reminding me to pack togs/lamingtons/costumes/money.
They also love to go wild with a champagne or six at the end of the school term.
I found my tribe and I love them and I love their kids.
I also love the routine of school.
Life is hectic, but there is an ebb and flow punctuated with the excitement of holidays and the return to routine when school resumes.
I like driving my kids to school knowing they are all snuggled in the back seat as we talk about the day ahead or sometimes just blast music.
I have loved so many days at primary school including having my nails painted bright green for Mother’s Day and catching a fish at school camp on Chambers Island.
I even didn’t mind home schooling in parts because I got to see how much our young kids learn in any given day.
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Avalon stopped holding my hand in about Year 3 but I always tell her that saying: “You hold your child’s hand for a short time but you hold their heart forever”.
So, congratulations to my Avalon on blossoming from a shy little five-year-old to a poised and kind young lady who is soon to turn 12.
Mrs Ghan gave my daughter (and me) the most golden of compliments when she said: “Avalon has grace and you cannot buy that”.
Well, each of her seven teachers over primary school and the raft of other educators have helped shape this little human.
They have been there when I was forced to let go of her hand.
And I will be forever thankful to them.
Sami Muirhead is a radio announcer, blogger and commentator. For more from Sami, tune into Mix FM.
