College life has started

Last Thursday we took Shayna to SUNY NewPaltz. I wasn't sure what to expect in terms of my emotions. Now that the dust has started to settle, the predominate feeling is of excitement for her.

Kev, Kenz and I drove her down to help her get settled in. The school is just over an hour from us, so there is security in knowing that we can get to her if she needs us (okay, or if I need to see her).

Through out the day, I was struck by the many juxtapositions between her maturity and her inexperience in the world. She carried herself with much poise, as she began to unpack and ran into a few people she met during orientation. I, on the other hand, turned away a few times so that she would not see the tears in my eyes. Then, we got to the book store, and she had not brought her course list with her (theres the inexperience peaking through) and look here's proof she still needs us! As she asked Kevin for help navigating the bookstore.

When the day was done, and we were leaving her, I did okay. I didn't cry...well only a little. Mostly, I will focus on the positive. My little girl is in college! She is having opportunities that I did not take advantage of at her age. She is making friends quickly, as she always does.

I have memories of little Shayna ice skating around the pond at my parents. Long legs and big heart, smiling from ear to ear. She knew she could get the "shoot the duck" and those beautiful cross overs mastered. It wasn't work for her, becasue she was so thrilled to be on her skates. I truly believe she will continue to skate through life in the same way.