Chad and I went for a walk on the Nature Trail right down from our home. We were soon greeted by a little girl with her younger brother in tow. I could see them from a distance gathering daisies that were growing along the bank of the trail. She had a handful but every few steps would stop and pick a few more. And yet another one. She was in a hurry too. Maybe mom had the picnic ready.
I asked for a picture. I told her that her flowers were pretty. She said, well my brother he has sticks too. And he did. Sticks held tightly in his fist along with a few daisies. Their cheeks all rosy to match their strawberry blonde hair. She held a single feather in her left hand. 
As we walked the trail that loops the lake, we came across little picked daisies scattered along the trail. The first flowers we found lay inside the covered bridge, a few floating along beside the turtles, who were hungry but not for flowers. 
More spotted in the pathways, here and there they had slipped out of her bouquet and lay on the ground.
Just when I thought she had not dropped any more…we would come across another. 
In the hustle and bustle of this week (graduation week), I relished this walk with Chad. I purposely did not question him about anything.
Not about college, work, girls or grades.
I just walked beside him and pointed out interesting things along the way. Leaving us free to just listen to the birds and our footsteps and let our minds wander.
We took the long way around.
I tried not to think about how it was just yesterday he was picking flowers with sticks in his hands wearing super hero t-shirts.
It was good. Life is bittersweet.
Katey
this is a neat memory that you will savor for many years. and will be reminded of whenever you see daisies growing wild along the path. This his graduation day…a day of one reached goal…a day of good things promised to come for him. A day of letting go. How can it be so fulfilling yet so …i’m at a loss for the word(s). I remember the feeling, tho when you and your brother walked across the stage. It is aptly called “empty nest”. How you feel inside….yet with the feeling of having done your job well. and now to watch your child begin to do his job well. Walk with God, each of you. love, mom
Thank you Mom. Such sweet thoughts shared. I do feel such a mixture of emotions but I want to be here in this time & place & would have it no other way. It’s easier this second time knowing I have a few more months to enjoy being with Chad. Although this fall it will be a difficult. Katey
This is a milestone for both of you, in different ways of course… God bless you both, & your family, as Chad finds his own path for his adult life, & you find the pleasure of watching him continue to grow in new ways.
Jerry, I do look forward to seeing what plans God has in store for Chad. Thank you! Katey
Seems like life is sometimes about adjusting to change and letting your loved one go. And just when all seems settled and rosy; here comes another goodbye and it wrenches so at your heart. Of course you will all walk on and overcome the separation and break in new routines. More happiness on the way in time. The heart is amazing the way it can constantly expand!
Thank you Julie. It’s so true all your words. I try to prepare as best I can and look forward to witnessing my son’s life blossom & flourish. Katey