Today, my baby graduates high school

My last born. My youngest. The final tassel in a chapter that’s been equal parts chaos and magic.

In July, she’ll leave to start a new chapter with her dad in North Carolina. And just like that, I’ll become an empty nester.

I’m excited - for her future, for the fierce, compassionate woman she’s becoming.

I’m happy - because she’s ready to spread her wings and chase her independence.

I’m nervous - because she’ll always be my baby. And part of me wants to wrap her in bubble wrap and keep the world at bay.

I’m proud - oh, I’m proud... Beta Club State Secretary. Lead in the school musical. Graduating with honors in both Beta and National Honor Society. She’s accomplished so much already - and she’s just getting started.

And above all, I’m grateful. Grateful for every moment that led us here. Grateful that for the third and final time, I get to stand in this moment and say: I did it. I raised them well.

But more than any role she’s played, more than any accolade she’s earned - she is loved. So deeply. So fully. So unconditionally.

Today, I am feeling all the feels. But mostly? I’m just in awe of her.

Fly high, sweet girl. You’ve got this. And you’ve got me - always.