First Day of School!

The first day of school arrived.

I can't decide if it snuck up on me or if it was overdue. Our summer felt so abbreviated part of me wasn't ready for this. But the craziness of just arriving home with a new family member made me long for the days of natural structure, routine, and precious time for Mom to spend alone.

Everyone was so excited.

Justin seemed nervous. Until the end of the first day when he seemed to float to the car with the biggest smile on his face. As we were driving home he seemed to be at a loss for words and finally came up with, "It is... amazing." All week long he proudly showed me his notes from class, completed homework, and class outlines. He gloated at the end of the week, "School administration says me: 'do you need extra help?' and I says, 'no.' Mom, they are very happy." I think reality will set in a bit for him shortly, but I am so glad to see he had a wonderful first week.

Caity is my child who would gladly stay in school year round. She actually complained when Friday arrived this week because she didn't want a weekend away from school. I know, it's kind of a sickness. It's nice to get one 'free pass' out of the 6 of them.

This is the first year Amber seemed to be excited for school to begin. She got the teacher she was hoping for. And this week, though not without challenge, has been better in some regards than past years.

Ty was so much more confident marching off to class this year. It was evident that he felt right at home this time. Coming to school with last year's experience under his belt made all the difference in the world. He gleefully greeted all of the teachers and staff and happily trotted off to meet his friends.

I can't believe Drew is in first grade this year. It was very strange to spend the entire school day without him. He was such a little stud at drop off. Several of the other kids were clinging onto their parents and hesitant to participate in the flag salute or line up with their class. But Drew marched right in with a giant smile on his face ready to tackle the day. He was beyond thrilled to come home with a "purple day" (representing exceptional behavior) his first day of class and even earn the distinction a second time during the first week.

So happy to be back with his buddies. Such cute boys.

Jacob was disappointed to be left behind yet again.

Making the first day home extra fun with Jello Jugglers.

But he was so happy to go back to his speech preschool Wednesday morning and see his teachers and friends. He begins a tiny-tots preschool next week and he is continually talking about his, "big boy school." He is so ready.

Overall our first week of school went well. We have a lot to juggle with homework and extracurricular activities. But once the dust settles a bit we should be able to at least keep everyone's heads above water. Success!