Here....

Today is about her. But I've chosen this picture as it was kind of a day for me too. It was the day we moved her in. It was the first time we could do this together, where I went to her dorm and helped her unpack and help her make it feel nice. It was the first time she could show me the school she already loves but now is learning so much more about. And could introduce me proudly to her friends. It was the day she walked off independently with her friends to places for the first time, not needing escorts. It was the first time I could meet the staff and parents I've been talking to for quite a while.

It was an odd today. It felt strange being in a place I know feels like home to Katie and that I have a sort of familiarity with, but yet felt so out of place and unknown to me. She met all her tutor group, 13 of them who are either choristers or musicians. They were introduced to the extent of their independence and some of the expectations of them. We were talked to (in a more packed room than either of us have sat in since March 2020) by the head honchos of various parts of the school. We both realised our discomfort at quite so many people. 

Katie's done incredibly well today. She's navigated her way through some challenges, not letting them overwhelm her.  When it came to saying goodbye (after she'd been filled up on sugar by Lisa bringing her celebratory lucky charms breakfast cereal!) she took big breaths, hugged me very tight and just went into her house. No tears. 

Oh, and todays observation.... Posh schools come with good cake, a lot of pastries, many strawberries and a deep sense of importance of the value of a cup tea. 

PPS... One of Katie's teachers from last year came up to me today "you must be Katie's mum, she showed me your photo when I was on duty!"  and then proceeded to tell me how wonderful they think she is. Not least because she can make an amazing cup of Yorkshire tea. 

Obvs, a couple of extras today too. She needs her sparkly moment.... and a couple of moments remembering the slightly nervous little face, clutching her monkey.