May 6th, 2010

Boulder, Colorado, University of Colorado, Graduation, Mrs. Mancini

Described as “the little town nestled between the mountains and reality”.  Yes, that is definitely a description for Boulder.  Its backdrop; the Flatirons and thousands of acres of open space and nature.

Boulder is the 11th most populous city in the state.  The life of the town is the University of Colorado. 

This where I will find myself this week-end.  It is graduation!!!

University of Colorado, is a national comprehensive research university and one of the 34 U.S. public institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU); 4 Nobel laureates, 15 astronauts, call themselves CU-Boulder Alums.

And CU has Ralphie, which is a real buffalo and one of the most majestics and popular college mascots in intercollegiate athletics. 

Boulder is fun and when you find yourself on Pearl Street, the main avenue, you can really feel how much of a college town it is. Music, families, and everyone is outdoors.  I find the people very fit, lots of jogging, walking, rock climbing, etc. 

Pearl Street

As I was thinking about my son graduating I had to also think about his first year in pre-school in Berlin, Maryland.  His teacher?  Mrs. Mancini.

She was one of those teaches that engaged the kids from the moment they stepped into her classroom.  As the school year progressed I also remember saying he was never going to be on the stage on the day of the Christmas Program.  Well, there he was and I almost fell over.

I kept a poem that Mrs. Mancini gave this class and still gives to anyone that goes through her program.  It is a tender poem and all of us parents have always cherised it.  Here it is:

My little ones it’s that time,

That time for you to go.

But as you leave me today;

There’s some things I want you to know.

Read your books, play your games,

And exercise everyday.

Dream, your dream, love your friends,

Never lose your way.

Always listen to you mom,

Pay attention to your dad,

Please tell them the truth,

They’ll always love you, no matter how mad.

Reach for the stars, always ask why,

Let your imagination zoom.

Remember, look for my hugs,

In these arms they will be room,

So go along now, go on your way,

I know you cannot stay.

I love you my little friends,

Forever and a day!

And, now after all those years behind him, it’s still time to continue the journey at another level.  How could you not help think about those formative years?  They really were great and so many friendships were formed, both for him and me, as well.

Anyway, I am off to Boulder.  You will hear from me because there will be a few restaurants to try.  Talk to you later….