By my side is a school uniform list, nicely tabled with all the things I need – and those they just want me to buy. This list came in a pack for 2012 Preps, one of which Riley will be.
In between the codes, styles and colours, breathtaking prices – and we go to a public school! – I now have the extra fun task of juggling purchases for both children. I am balancing in my head just how many new shirts Riley might need as compared to what ones are in good enough nick to simply pass down from Keira. The pants will be a problem. Riley loathes wearing anything but jeans. I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. I might need some hand holding when I do. There will be tantrums.
The other week, as I was filling in his application for next year, I was full of nervy excitement (Nearly there!) plus a little bit of smugness (Heck, look at me, I’m being organised for once). Then when it was done, I walked out of the office, back into the sunshine, and Riley reached for my hand as he has done countless times, but these times are getting rarer.
I took his hand, squeezed it, and fought back the urge to cry.
I’m sure I will be fine. After all, I’ve still got over half a year to get used to the idea he’s off to school. Then again that also means almost half of the year has already gone and I don’t know where it went.
