This past week I sat, uncomfortably, on gymnasium seats, and watched the ending of a most treasured and cherished part of my life come to an end and watched the beginning of a new and exciting world open up for my first grandson, Taylor. 
As I marveled at the proficiency in how he moved from one percussion instrument to another, I was overwhelmed with emotions.
A little over 17 years ago, I became someone I have absolutely adored being – Meme.
I was watching him in his last high school band concert.
I had seen him go from beginner band with somewhat awkward movements of the drumsticks, to Junior High band becoming more sure of himself, and now, to a proficiency that made me so proud.
It was a melancholy few minutes for me and through tears, I realized I would never see him on this particular stage again.
I watched my children move into this stage of their lives with some sniffles but never the overwhelming sobs that I experienced at this time.
This is my first baby, my first grandson and I am not ready to let go just yet.
However, I know that it is time and as the seasons go, so do the lives of our children.
I am excited for him to see what is to be experienced next in his young life and to what an exceptional man he will grow into, but the loss of the “now” pricks at my soul somewhat.
Graduation is just a few days away and I am already packing in the tissues.
I have told my husband when they call his name all I will see is the little curly-headed boy who tried to fit his small tricycle into my refrigerator because the seat was too hot for him to ride, or all the times he has said, “I love you, Meme.”
Now I see a man, a man of integrity that will become a SOMEONE in his lifetime.
I have already talked to him and we have realized it will only be a short trip to Starkville and I can still bring him creamed potatoes often.
Now I am just trying to wrap my head and heart around the fact that next year we will have three grandchildren graduating high school.
You might see me occasionally with no makeup because I have cried all of it off.
And if you have extra tissues, please save them for me. I will certainly need them come next May.
This is my recipe for the creamed potatoes that Taylor really enjoys and this is the amount I cook for all of them, so you may need to adjust.
Creamed potatoes
Eight pounds of white potatoes cooked and mashed.
To these add:
one large can of Pet milk,
¾ cup of mayonnaise
salt and pepper
Mash until they have no lumps then use an electric mixer to make creamy while adding milk, mayonnaise and salt and pepper.
