In 2020 we had planned to celebrate Ashley's graduation from high school with a big party. As we all know, the world had other plans. As Ashley was nearing graduation this time, I started to invite everyone who was ever important to Ashley as she was growing up. The friends and family, teachers and mentors we would have invited after high school graduation. The goal was a simple backyard party. As invitations went out via word of mouth, Facebook, and text there were many enthusiastic ayes and dismayed nays, and an assortment of no replies. Holding the party on Father's Day Weekend meant many had other plans.
Our best decision was to hire Pam to be our caterer. After watching her flip burgers at a church function I jokingly asked if she would be free to flip burgers at Ashley's party. She replied, "You do know that I have a side catering business?" Umm... no. The idea was not as farfetched as I thought it was. Don was a little apprehensive, but by the end of the day (which included having a new refrigerator delivered) he declared that the best decision ever!
We lucked out with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-70s. A few days later we began a typical summer heatwave where doors stay closed and we forget about the outdoors. On that day, our 40 or so loved ones spread out in the kitchen (always the kitchen), family room, and outside. I tortured Ashley with a few group pictures outside by the Muhlenberg banner, but tried to let her hang out with her high school and college friends who blended into one big group.
The farthest away award went to Aunt Doris, who stopped her from Florida on the way to a family graduation party in New York. Ed and Carol were honorary recipients.
The farthest day traveler award is split between Greg and Dave W., one came from Delaware and the other from Connecticut. Not sure which ride was longer. Both were a surprise to the guest of honor.
The closest award goes to neighbors Lisa and Carlos who walked over.
With the party over, part of me feels the role of us as parents to a student has finished. Laura brought us a bottle of sparkling wine to celebrate -- recognizing the party was also a celebration of us reaching a new parenting stage. I don't picture Don sharing the bottle with me, but may I open it with the friends I made when Ashley was a wee one. We did it! We successfully got our children to adulthood!
As for the next stage, we stand by as Ashley leads us down that path. What is our role as she navigates looking for a full-time job and even moves out of our home.
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