Horn Tooting

Last Friday, April 20, was an exciting day for Olivia. (I’ll admit, I was excited also!) She was recognized for her scholastic achievements as well as leadership and volunteerism. Yes, she had to apply and she was awarded. She was inducted into the Middle School Honor Society. What an achievement! We are so proud of her. The ceremony was held in the gym and it was very nice. (The only disappointment was the sound system. Mumble. Mumble. It wasn’t working or hooked up properly.) All the students attended as well as parents and relatives, teachers and board members. The students were announced and escorted to the front to receive their certificate. A reception for the students and their guests followed the ceremony. It was nice to chat with other parents and congratulate many of Olivia’s classmates (her grade had the most inductees). And then it was time for Olivia to head to class and I left for work.

Next week Olivia is headed to Ithaca as she was “accepted” to Cornell University, as part of the Early College Awareness Program that the middle school participates in. I am impressed with what they are teaching our children. Olivia had to apply and fill out an application for college. They have also created their resumes and participated in mock job interviews. I’m not sure if I should be happy or concerned. She is in 6th grade. I’ll settle for happy as she is preparing for the future and that is good. She is one determined individual and that is what I worry about. I don’t want her to get so serious about volunteering and participating in activities so she can “build” her resume. I want her to enjoy her middle school years. It is a time of growth, finding oneself and those she wants to “hang with” for the remainder of her school days. But back to Cornell. They will visit a dormitory (scary thought right there) and attend two classes as well as eat in one of the dining halls. Now she has been to Cornell for a half day tour and Cornell students have visited her school to present information to them. She also participated in “bring your child to work day” with me two years ago. As she stays on the straight and narrow path, in a few years we might be moving her into a dorm on North campus! That’d be nice – close to home yet away at college.

Nervoulsy waiting for her name to be called.

Waiting for her escorts to reach her.

The happy inductee!

Olivia ~ you were special from the day I knew I was carrying you. You are a beautiful young woman, intelligent, caring, thoughtful and helpful. I pray that God guides you throughout your life, that you always look for HIS guidance and love, and that you also rely on your family for support, love and encouragement. We are so very proud of you and all that you have accomplished, not only this year but in the past. Great opportunities await you, embrace them, enjoy them, learn and grow from them.

We love you!