As of late.

What a whirlwind the last couple weeks have been. The year thus far, really. I look back and see a big fuzzy ball of stress, excitement, anticipation and a whole lot of go, go, go. For the first time in many years, I can stop living solely in the now and start looking forward to what's next. 

With that comes a lot of unknowns: When do we put our house on the market? When do I take the GREs? Which programs should I apply to this fall? What else can make my applications stand out? But I'm not letting all the what ifs monopolize my time or cloud the excitement and pride I currently feel.

Although last week blew by, there were some moments of serenity and joy. My aunts came for my graduation, and my grandma surprised me. I walked into the house to see her perched on our couch. My awesome husband kept it a secret for months. I don't know how he did it. They wanted me to have family there. To feel celebrated. It meant everything. Mario's mom, sister, brother, and our niece also came. It was lovely.

This weekend also marked Kiddo's 13th birthday. I am so proud of the young man he is becoming. He is smart, sweet, funny, and has such a kind heart. What more could a mother could ask for? Not a thing, in my opinion.

We delayed his party by one day so everyone could be there. After graduation we had a big barbeque (ribs... Kiddo's choice) and finished off the evening with presents and cake. 

He really wanted an Almond Joy cake, so I invented one. Two layers of almond-flavored white cake sandwiching a chocolate layer, topped with coconut frosting. Winning.

Three guesses as to what he's obsessed with right now.

There was also a day trip around Vermont, photography, and some awesome and unexpected graduation gifts. I went shopping for non-necessities for the first time in months and scored some great finds (including a new foundation I'm gaga over). Tomorrow shall be the day of sharing.