Goodness, we’ve had quite a gap since my last post. I’ll catch up soon (or perhaps not!) — but in the meantime, here’s the latest excitement in our sweet little world…

Parenting is filled with milestones. First foods, first words, first steps — so many firsts. As the daughter and sister of two of the best teachers I know, I’ve always held a special place for “school” in our milestone list. Although Claire has been a part of some fantastic preschool programs over the last few years, kindergarten has always felt like a biggie.

Summer wrapped up with a wonderful Popsicles on the Playground event to introduce rising elementary students to their new teachers, principal, and school staff. We had a great time meeting everyone and reuniting with neighbors and friends.

The next week we went as a family to Open House, where we toured Claire’s classroom and visited the library, cafeteria, and more. Her main teacher, Mrs. Nicastro, is now out on maternity leave, but Claire is fortunate to have Ms. Lyon as an assistant teacher. Both are loving and bubbly and exactly what I pictured in a kindergarten teacher!

Claire woke up ready to roll on her first day! We enjoyed a special breakfast together, then drew hearts on our hands (to look at when we missed each other), tied on our parent-kid friendship bracelets (a gift from Claire’s knowing teachers), and prepared for our stroll to school. Before we set off, I spilled my Mama heart out telling Claire how I’ve been praying that God would protect her heart, her body, and her brain. Without skipping a beat, she sweetly stopped me and said, “Mommy, don’t worry. I went to Sonshine Preschool lots of days and Mrs. Patti always told me that I’m a child of God.” Boy, I couldn’t have heard sweeter words. Our girl was ready to go.

And off we went! We packed Cora up in a stroller and all walked to school. “I’m not nervous anymore, just excited,” Claire said, taking off in a run. Minus one sidewalk spill that resulted in a skinned knee and elbow, we arrived in 7 minutes. First stop: school nurse for band-aids. Next: class! 

Our big girl hustled into her room with hardly a hesitation. (Kindergarteners have a staggered entry, so only 6 kids started with her on Tuesday. The full class convened on Friday.) Before we knew it, Adam, Cora, and I were back home and counting the hours til 3 p.m., when our brave Big Girl would ride the bus back (at her request).

Her first words when she arrived home: “KINDERGARTEN WAS AWESOME.” Amen!