S.O.S.S. (Sign of a Swan Song)

When you see a great big swan sleeping outside your hotel room, isn't that some sort of sign that a swan song is in the works?
 

I mean really, it was eerily appropriate for our swan song as parents and Carter's first verse of his new song, don't you think?

It was like the sign was saying, "This way to your new life, Carter."

The three of us had a full day today on campus, starting with 8 a.m. breakfast, then programming at 8:30 a.m sharp. We had several welcome and informational speeches on everything from food plans to campus security, then the parents stayed at the student center and the kids went off. We did connect again for lunch but then they split off again.

Carter got his new student ID picture taken and the ID was ready by day's end. And most importantly, he registered for his first semester of classes! No 8 a.m. classes for this sleepy head, thank goodness!

Just in case, we did point out that his new alarm system has been installed on campus. Ha. Some mornings it feels like that's what it takes.

At least the campus is small enough he shouldn't have problems getting anywhere on time, even if he has to hustle or perhaps the ride the rails.

Move-in Day will be the Saturday of Labor Day weekend and they want us parents out of there by 2 p.m. As the Welcome Weekend event planner noted, "This isn't about you. You'll need to go and let your child become immersed in UW-P. You've had them for 18 years and you will have them forever. But starting that weekend, it's our turn."

That's definitely telling it to us straight! And really, it was just exciting to be there. Sure, I'll bawl my eyes out when I say goodbye in 82 days, but I remember how much I loved college and can't wait for Carter to experience it (most of it, that is).

Need to keep reminding myself that it is time to be a proud Pioneer parent! No time for sad swan songs.

For now, UW-P and Big Miner M are in our rearview mirror, but soon we will be surrounded by the Pioneer life and what it is doing to turn our baby into a grown man.

Heaven, help us. Please.