Today was the first day of a new school year...and this is how my children decided to ring in the new year...it was quite a show over breakfast.
My "baby" started first grade today. It was so much harder to send her off to first grade than to kindergarten last year. Kindergarten was a no-brainer...I had a couple hours each day to run errands, get stuff done, etc. and all her dreams came true because she was off to school with the "big kids". But we also got to hang out lots in the morning and I loved that. She packed her own lunch in her Hello Kitty lunchbox and jumped out of the car when we got to school and never looked back. It is exactly how it is supposed to be...now I just need to convince my heart of that.
My middle son in in 3rd grade...time doesn't slow down. If anything, it races faster and faster forward. How did this little boy grow up so fast? He is handsome and smart and kind and I still want to kiss his adorable cheeks every time I see him.
Could not possibly be more proud of this backpack!! Go Cougars!
And my oldest is in 5th grade. I don't know what to say...we are racing toward middle school and it makes my heart flutter. He is tall...so, so tall...and also incredibly smart, handsome, and lots of fun. He has always loved school and I am grateful.
And may I once again bear my little testimony of school uniforms. Love, love, LOVE them! Makes school shopping cheap and easy, eliminates any possible arguments in the morning over the great chasm between what mom sees as appropriate and what kids see as suitable, sends them off with a message about respect for where they are and the "job" they are there to do, and who can resist a first grader in plaid with ruffle socks??
After school, I picked them up and we headed to our favorite bakery for cinnamon rolls and mint brownies. We sat and talked about their day and somewhere inside of me I felt a big sigh that they were home again and mine. Nothing like sending them back to school to make me miss them and realize how little time in this life they will really, truly be just "mine"!
The morning started with Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" and ended with this...fancy "back to school" table settings from the dollar store. As we ate dinner, we talked about their first day and all the things they are excited about and looking forward to this year.
I am grateful beyond measure for 3 children who love school and cherish learning. I am grateful for their many talents and gifts. I am grateful for the many ways that my life has been blessed because of who they are and what they are helping me to become.
All 3 of my children attend an amazing school and have been blessed with exceptional teachers. I know these women and am humbled by their abilities in the classroom. They are dedicated to their craft, passionate about their students, knowledgable, and possess so many strengths and talents that will bless my children in so many diverse ways. I hope as you approach this school year, that you will stop and take a moment to appreciate what educators across this country sacrifice in time, monetary gain, and effort to stand in front of your child's classroom and provide an opportunity for your children to become all that they can be and live the "american" dream...go on...hug a teacher!
My goal this year is to see my children "challenge their smart selves". I want to see them work a little harder, reach a little higher, and take greater pride in their learning and efforts. And a day doesn't go by that we don't say, "Be Good and Do Good"! It is a family motto.
Happy back to school! May it be filled with spontaneous song and dance over breakfast, cute kids, new backpacks, and lots of enthusiasm.
