Orientation

Rebekah and I are at Ohio University getting oriented. Last time Mark attended orientation with Jason and I stayed home with the just-turned-two year old and was 6 months pregnant.

It's interesting to me how much OU has changed in 8 years. Last time everything was "don't ask, we won't tell". Don't ask them how your child is doing, they won't tell you anyway. Now, it's "family involvement is key". Guess which one I'm more comfortable with? I like knowing if my child is in trouble, they'll make sure I know.

I also love the idea the university encouraging parent involvement, to a point. I want to be very supportive of Rebekah and her academic career. I want to be there for her and support her emotionally however we can, but this is hers now. We'll always be here for her, we definitely will do all we can to help her succeed, but it's hers to do with whatever she will. Still, I think their goal of family involvement has something to do with Ohio U being number 3 in the nation of meeting predicted graduation rate goals.

I must say, I was somewhat reluctant to come to orientation, even more reluctant as Julianna sobbed and sobbed in bed last night (it's an overnight program and she's not used to me being gone, like, ever.) It's been a really good program though. I've learned some things about what to expect, and I've enjoyed that attitude of all the University staff I've met/listened to.

Rebekah was one of about a dozen students accepted into the Connavino Honors Program in the college of education. It's a fantastic opportunity, but also an incredible amount of work. I hope that she can keep up with the program requirements, the college requirements and still have a fulfilling university life.

Speaking of which...have you heard? Ohio University is the number 2 party school in the nation. As you can imagine, the staff at OU is less than thrilled with the distinction. I think the whole thing is really annoying, and I think it does a real disservice to the students who go to college for the right reasons and work their tails off. I'll also say, if the faculty sticks to what we're being told, I pity the idiots who are caught for underage drinking anytime soon. As I said, the faculty is definitely not amused with the distinction. They're much prouder, justifiably, of being named to the best colleges in the Midwest list.

Well, I've got a little more time to kill before dinner, then another session on Expectations and Opportunities, followed by some fun in the student Union. It will be interesting sleeping in a dorm tonight. Tomorrow a few more sessions then home in the early afternoon.

It's all a little bittersweet honestly. I'm thrilled for Rebekah. Feeling more panicked by the minute practically about my inability to find another family to sit for; feeling the urgency as I think about how much all of this costs. I'm also acutely feeling how very close it's getting to when she leaves, when our relationship begins to shift, permanently, and how very unready for that I feel. Most of all, I'm trying to concentrate on how proud I am of her and what exciting opportunities are ahead for her.