Last. First.

File this one under "first world problems"

Today is my (Wanda Louise) oldest kid's last first day of high school.  Did you get that?  Last.  First.  She's a senior in high school.  I'm feeling sentimental.  The first day of kindergarten was just a minute ago. 

Look at our little "lion cub."  Not nervous at all about Kindergarten!

She's smart, confident, and well prepared.  She didn't sleep last night, not from worry, but from excitement about a terrific schedule with teacher's she knows already, faithful friends to sit with in every class and partner with in every lab and everything else that goes along with the stars aligning for a fabulous end to her "under-under-graduate" career.

I didn't sleep last night wondering what this year holds for her?  Will we ever see her in the afternoons with 5 AP classes on her schedule?  Should I introduce her to the beautiful brown liquid called coffee?  Which college will be the one that woos her away from us and into her future?  And really most importantly will she have someone to eat lunch with and did she put chap stick in her backpack!  Seriously people, this is what's most important at 3 a.m.

I wonder if there's help for me?  I have a kid who will likely get into any college she chooses, who loves school and will no doubt prove herself an excellent student, and who has a lovely group of peers who are like minded and just silly enough to loosen her up.  And yet I still find myself awake at 3 a.m. on the night before the first day of school.

Boys if you're reading this don't feel left out.  I worried about you at 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. for different reasons and I'll be a sentimental wreck in three more years.  Your time is coming. 

Anyone know a counselor who specializes in first world problems of middle aged moms?

I love you Ace.