Out the door for the last first day

Thomas just walked out the door to leave for school...his senior year.  This is his last first day of school, and therefore it is the last first day of school for any kiddo in this house.  I don't really understand how that is even possible.  There wasn't much fanfare this morning...a quick pic or two.  Even now, it is different with only him, and with him being mostly responsible.  My most vivid memories of first days are from our former town.  So many vivid memories of school starting.  This is my third "first day" when I've been working, but the first when I wasn't in a classroom.

This coming year will be full of so many transitions.  Andrew and I will most likely be adjusting to empty nesting at this time next year.   We will almost certainly lose Andrew's father during this school year, and at age 90 and with some health issues developing, there is a possibility of losing my grandmother as well.  This year will fly by.  There will be laughs, there will be tears.  There will be exhaustion and renewal.  I'm so grateful for the life I'm living that is full of so many blessings with such special people.