Well, those pictures pretty much sum up what we've been up to this week. In between trips to the bank to exchange currency, errands out for 'just one more pair of skate shoes, it IS three months, Mom' (because this boy loves his shoes and apparently there are no skate shoes in France? I don't believe this for a second, and yet I indulge him), and to the notary more than once for this form or that one that I forgot.......in between all of that, we've been filling the house with people who love Calvin. I have to say it's what we do well - filling a house - and we've certainly done it this week. Everyone has been by for a meal, or a party, or a quick goodbye hug. You'd think he was moving to the other side of the world forever, the way we've carried on. But I'm not going to feel shy about all of that. He is loved by many, and showering each other in that celebration can never be a bad thing, can it?
Calvin is more than ready to go this trip has been so long in the making. And he's a capable kid, ready for this kind of independence (and hopefully ready for that much French!). He's amazingly only a little nervous. There's no need to talk about my nerves. You know. But I'm (going to try) saving that little cry for later, tonight, back at home when I reach for just six plates in the cupboard for dinner. Then it'll hit.
But for now, there is one more notary stop to make (seriously), a last lunch to have with our boy, and then to the airport it is for this grand adventure for baby who has grown into a young man. I have no advice left to dole out, no more packing lists to check off....only a heartfelt, excited, and joyful 'Je t'aime et au revoir!' to whisper in his ear.