Enjoying June

June has been full of gifts! We are enjoying 8th grade graduation, family parties, trips to the shore, our anniversary, Camp PALS, and more!

8th Grade Graduationcollage of photos from Marilee's 8th grade grad

Marilee graduated from 8th grade, which also means she finished 13 years at the only school she’s ever attended. She may never have a relationship with another institution that lasts that long. I am so grateful for the way Washington Montessori School shaped her into the thoughtful, fun, kind young woman she is. I’m even grateful for the hundreds of hours we spent in the car together, where I listened to teenage murder mysteries, we solved the Wordle and Connections, I learned new words like “riz” and “sigma,” and I also—every so often—got to hear about what she was thinking or feeling. She gave a speech (as did each of her classmates) during graduation about the way her school gave her a place of safety, love, and belonging. It also made her into someone who helps other people feel safe and loved and that they belong.

Anniversary

a vase filled with pink and white flowers sitting on a table

The day of Marilee’s graduation was also our 26th wedding anniversary. Peter and I haven’t done much to celebrate it yet, but he did send me some pretty incredible flowers.

Camp PALSPenny and two members of a welcome team smile outdoors in front of a stone building. The welcome team is wearing matching red

Penny is at Camp PALS, one of her favorite weeks of the year. PALS creates inclusive camp experiences for people with and without Down syndrome. She loves every minute.

A Few Days at the Shore

And I get to spend a few days at the shore with Marilee and five of her close friends. I honestly don’t miss the toddler years, or even the elementary school cuteness. But I cherish every one of these days.

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Published on June 20, 2025 05:52
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