The Graduate

Congratulations to my godson, Dominic, who today graduates from high school and takes that step over the threshold and into the rest of his life.

It’s just yesterday that he was in diapers (and so chunky that we joked he looked like Buddha). As you would expect, he is today all grown up.

I just know he has an amazing future ahead of him. He’s smart and kind, thoughtful and has a great sense of fun — something he needed growing up sandwiched between two sisters with delightful, but assertive, personalities.

An altar server and Eagle Scout, band geek, swim team member and football player, he’s also spent the past couple of years as a page in the state house in Rhode Island where he lives. I’m tired just listing his many activities (that wasn’t all of them, either).

This fall, he’s headed to the University of New Haven and already plotting dates when he can get on the train to Old Greenwich for a home-cooked meal and use of the laundry facilities. I’m thrilled at the prospect of spending time with him — even if I know in my heart that after one or two times, college friends and activities will edge me out (unless the skivvies are in REALLY bad shape).

It has been such a joy to watch him grow. From this (Yes, I know that even from mild-mannered Dominic I will catch hell for posting this. And yet I cannot resist!):

Dominic, December 1997. Too cute!

to this:

Dom’s senior portrait.

Wishing you the stars and the moon, Dom; let your heart guide you to them. xo