Andrew Graduates VPK

Our little guy has taken his first big educational step-he graduated from Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten! Doesn't he look all grown up?

Aunt Cathy and Uncle David drove down to attend the big event. I was busy making chocolate chip cookies when they arrived-I'm quickly turning into Mr. Mom-and they were bearing presents. Andrew opened the first box and found a Star Trek control room. We made an extra lasagna a few days ago, so we heated it up and made a salad and some garlic toast for dinner. Unfortunately, we didn't have time to sit down and enjoy it properly. Susan wanted to leave for the ceremony at 5:50, and we didn't start eating until 5:30.

The ceremony was held at a church in town. When we arrived, we put Andrew in his cap and gown and dropped him off with his classmates in the staging room; along with the cookies. We went into the sanctuary and found seats right up front. Susan-the informed volunteer at Andrew's school-picked a spot where we'd have a clear view of Andrew.

After a quick prayer, the ceremony began. The kids-about twenty-five in all-started filing in. It wasn't the most organized precession I've ever seen. One boy ran to the front, another talked to his parents, and another wouldn't walk at all. Andrew brought up the rear. Based on their entry order and where they were placed, Andrew ended up at the far end of the line, almost completely hidden from view. So much for Susan's insider information.

The kids sang a couple songs, then received their cute little diplomas. They started filing out, single file, but that quickly dissolved into a mad dash for the door. Remember, there were cookies and drinks waiting in the staging room.

The parents and relatives soon joined the kids and staff in the staging room. The adults were busy trying to get pictures of their kid with other kids and teachers, while the kids were attacking the cookie table and the drinks. It was a madhouse. To make things more challenging, one of the parents asked me to take pictures of her kid, too. Wow, I had my hands full trying to keep up with him.

Eventually, the families started to leave and quickly we found ourselves alone in the courtyard. We took a few family photos and said good-bye to Aunt Cathy and Uncle Dave. When we got home, we had to open the other box. In it, we found the Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise.

Andrew now has the summer off. I will likely continue in my role of Mr. Mom while getting more flight training. And Susan-hopefully-will continue doing her part-time job.