Dear Liza,
Cousin Jasper has graduated the eighth grade! I am so proud of him. I am also amazed at how quickly he has gone from quiet, unsure little dude to amazing young-man-to-be.
His promotion ceremony at Winterhaven (called Winterhaven at Historic Brooklyn School) was just right. It was a mix of tradition, like Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance”, and quirkiness, in that we all hummed the tune as the graduates entered. Teachers told stories, sang, and passed on words of wisdom.
Finally, it was time to graduate. Each student took their turn to get their certificate, shake the principal’s hand, and announce their name and the high school they would be attending. Most of the students hurried through or mumbled, but Jasper stood tall and practically shouted, “My name is Jasper Louis Proctor and I’m going to Benson Polytechnic High School!” I practically exploded with pride.
After cake and conversation in the main hallway, there were some unexpected shenanigans outside. Seeing some fellow eighth graders climbing the sign, Jasper wanted to, as well.
It was a struggle, but he kept at it and got to the top, and was rightly proud of himself. Kestrel helped, of course.
After all the excitement, we had a blessedly quiet dinner at Kanji down on Division, hugged, and said our goodbyes. I am so happy to be able to be here for all the Grandma bits!
Love,
Grandma Judy
Dear Liza 