In a whirlwind, H O T, but very memorable weekend, we sent Clare off on the start of what we are certain will be four of the most remarkable years of her life!
We flew in Thursday evening, which allowed us time to leisurely walk the campus, see Farley Hall up close, and get a sense of where her classes would be. We lit candles in the Grotto, and finished with a delightful dinner at Salsa’s (which we knew as Don Pablo’s in our day).
The next day was move-in, and the official start of Welcome Weekend. We hit Meijer, Target (including a chance but super friendly visit with Mike Brey, the men’s basketball coach), Bed, Bath & Beyond and Home Depot, so that by the end of the weekend the room was mostly complete. It’s *substantially* larger than the other rooms, which prompted many people to pop their heads in and gawk! This also meant that we didn’t have to loft their beds, which simplified things considerably.
Clare’s roommate Abby hails from New York, and the fact that they could pick out a rug together at Target after very little personal interaction bodes well.
There was a lovely, albeit HOT (did I mention how warm it was?), opening session in the stadium, programs for parents with our respective dorm rector, and another for the college of intended study. Each was really well done, as of course was the concluding mass that preceded the “farewell for now.” Clare and I shed a few tears, but primarily felt so happy knowing she was at home at the Dome.
Tim and I flew out the next day while she was busy with activities like lectures and taking the above Class of 2025 photo. It was so awesome to be back, this time as a parent. Go Clare, and Go Irish!
