Pomp and Circumstances

Lyra's graduation from nursery was on Thursday. If you've read Russell's blog, you know it was a swanky affair. On par with the Law School graduation from Marquette we attended for our niece Susan last May. It was hosted in the ballroom of a local hotel. Before the ceremony, parents had tea, coffee, and juice. Then the ceremony was followed by an early brunch of finger sandwiches, small appetisers, and cakes.

It was so cute to see the kids march up onto the stage in their uniforms to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstances". The nusery had provided little capes that they wore (as graduation gowns). After their dress rehersal on Wednesday, Lyra told me, "Mama, the music that they play when we're walking is so-o-o beautiful. I think when I hear it that tears will come into my eyes." I told her I was pretty sure that I'd cry, too.

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After all the children were seated, Lyra went to the front to take the microphone and said, "Dear Mummys and Daddys, Welcome to our graduation. We hope you have a nice time. I love you." I was stunned, really. Only 6 months ago, there is no way that she would have the poise or confidence to do that. Visions of her valedictory address 15 years from now were swimming in my head.

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Afterward, Lyra went over to Meera's house for a playdate. These two are like an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. Kind of fun to watch the interplay between two strong personalities. Lyra learns a lot from Meera. Meera seems to be a lot less inhibited about doing whatever she wants - whereas Lyra is more concerned about what others will think. But the two each have their own ideas about how things should be.

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And this handsome little fellow is Majid (nicknamed Mayudi). He's Meera's little brother. I thought he was so cute in his little thobe. Note the arab sandals, too. He will still be at Gulf Montessori for one more year. When I told Lyra that he wasn't going to the new school with Meera, she said, "But what if he needs her? How will he go get her?" I'm sure he'll learn.

Next year's going to be a big change for all of us.