There are some days for a parent that are anticipated for years; milestones that are bound to happen yet somehow it’s so surreal once you have actually come to that long-awaited day, the start of a new chapter for the whole family. This week has been a whirlwind, life changing for all of us. Princess P started Kindergarten and Princess Sweetie Pie started Preschool.
Both girls were so excited, the big day was finally here! Princess P has been in preschool since she was two and a half so the idea of making new friends and going to school has been something she’s been looking forward to for some time now. The girls said their goodbyes and off went Princess Sweetie Pie with Daddy as Princess P and I headed to the Elementary School. As we drove the short distance we both sang along to Justin Bieber to ease our nerves.
The classroom was packed with kids and parents exploring the new environment and meeting the teacher. Soon it was time to sit down and listen to the teacher introduce herself and read an adorable book. After the story was over it was time for parents to say goodbye. I was blindsided by the tears and gripping hug that came from my Princess P! It was heartbreaking as she cried for me not to leave, but also a relief that she was still my baby girl who wanted and needed her mommy.
I choked back tears as I walked to the Kindergarten orientation.
Tonight I sat down with each of the girls and did a little interview with them about their first days of school. Reflecting on the past three days of packing lunches, waking up early and figuring out how all this works, I am amazed in how much can change in such a short amount of time. Princess Sweetie Pie has already started to blossom and excel noticeably and each day Princess P seems more confidant and excited about another day at her big school. And this mama here has had the first sweet taste of freedom (also called empty nest syndrome) that I haven’t known in nearly five years.
This morning I felt lost after both girls had been dropped off at school, I had no idea what to do with the quiet and lack of chaos, so I embraced it. Although it’s hard to let my babies spread their wings and grow up, I am so happy for them to start this new adventure; the next chapter is going to be a good one for all of us.
Kindergarten interview with Princess P. She worked very hard to write every letter herself.
Preschool Interview with Princess Sweetie Pie…the innocence and simplicity of her answers are undeniable.
Tootles,
I loved reading this after I had my 30th (adult) year of “the first day of school” as both a teacher and administrator. This year I really enjoyed watching all the parents of our Kinders. You can just see the pride, courage, anxiety, love and many other emotions as they walk their “babies” to school each day. Thanks for letting me read about your experience.
Thanks Dawn. It was such a bittersweet day, one of many I’m sure…it’s so nice to see so many parents being so invested in their kids and school, it was a refreshing discovery.
It never ends. Lol. After that first milestone, each and everyone comes sooner and sooner. And it never gets easier. Tears fall everytime. Enjoy the ride. I know I am.!! Miss ya! Love you!
I can only imagine! It’s going by so fast, I can’t believe it!
So sweet!
Thanks Bec! It’s been crazy, I know you get it!