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As I sign the Enrolment forms for my eldest child to move to High School in 2024, I am starting to feel all the feels.

Whilst this step is still 18 months away for our family, all the emotions as a parent are right there. To be honest, I'd be happy for time to stand still, but I know there are adventures that are just around the corner for my son.

So here is the letter I wish I wrote to my Mum and Dad....

“Dear Mum and Dad – Thank you.

Soon, it will be time for me to leave Primary School. It’s time for my next step. I want you with me to hold my hand – but I think I need to do part of this on my own. But before I do that, I need to thank you.

Thank you for choosing this school when you weren’t given a rule book on what I needed, what would suit me , what I would love. Thank you for allowing me to try every single school sport – only to stick to just one. I now know you spent hundreds of dollars on each different uniform that I was potentially going to go represent Australia in….

I’m sorry you didn’t realise that when you bought that new Mazda Station Wagon, it came with a taxi licence. That the licence was compulsory. To drive me and my friends to every sporting event, play date and party.

You know, the lunches you made me every single day were really appreciated. I know it didn’t look like it when I brought it home, uneaten and half moudly.

I have a secret too... I probably did lose my jumper – or it was left in my tray. I really don’t know where it is, and I am totally freezing without it, but I wont tell you that.

When I ignored you when you were in the tuck shop, I secretly loved you were there. You knew that didn’t you?

You must be a little sad too. But you aren’t showing it. I know you feel like a part of your life is moving on. I know the friends you have made won’t stop as I am leaving school. I’ve seen the way you act with them… the mums nights, the concerts, the bowls clubs chats. Those friends are like your family too – and always will be there.

I’m scared and excited Mum and Dad. Of the next step. I know I have a few friends coming with me – but I am scared. Scared of what I don’t know. Excited what I will learn, who I will meet, what new sport will be my new Olympic dream.

But Mum and Dad – thank you – as you have given me such a good base to start this next step. And I didn’t thank you enough. I should have. You were working, you were tired, you may been stressed. But you didn’t show it.  

Thank you, Mum and Dad.

Let’s find that next adventure. And maybe you can volunteer in the Tuckshop….just once… so I know you are there.

Love 12 year old Trish”