Tiny backpack
Crayon on her hand
Little shoes tapping
Didn’t understand
Last day circle time
Paper crown on her head
They said “congratulations”
I felt my chest go red
Avery
You’re growing up
Guess that’s how the seasons turn
But I still see your name
On every drawing board I learn
It’s been a while since that goodbye
But some Fridays hit me then
I drive past that old front door
And I wish I could see you again
Empty cubby
Sticker peeling off your name
Snack time table
Doesn’t feel the same
I still save
That crooked card you made
“Thank you teacher”
In purple and gray
Avery
You’re growing up
Guess that’s how the seasons turn
But I still see your name
On every drawing board I learn
It’s been a while since that goodbye
But some Fridays hit me then
I drive past that old front door
And I wish I could see you again
Do you still hum
Those little made-up songs?
Do you still laugh so hard
When the day feels long?
I tell myself
This is what I’m here to do
Let you go and still
Carry pieces of you
Avery
You’re growing up
Guess that’s how the seasons turn
But I still see your name
On every drawing board I learn
It’s been a while since that goodbye
But some Fridays hit me then
I sit outside and close my eyes
And I wish I could see you again
