First Day

In a few years time, or maybe even a few days time, the routine of going to school will be old hat. But not today. Today it is a big deal. Last night we had a "going back to school" special dinner that is all the rage these days. Then a father's blessing.

This morning:

First day of kindergarten

Talmage has been excited for kindergarten for what seems like years. He is excited he can ride the bus (for now. just wait until he learns what 45 minutes feels like-the length of his morning ride). He's met his teacher, Mrs. Weber, twice. He's in good hands. Maybe one day I'll look at this picture and think he looks so little. But right now, to me, he looks very grown up. He'll do great.

First day of preschool

Sydney is excited she gets to ride with dad in the truck to school, which is right across the street from his work. Sydney was up first, got dressed first, and was raring to go. She kept asking Briton all morning, "Are you ready? Are you ready?"

Sydney leaves at 8:50-ish. Talmage waits for the bus at 10:25-ish.

And waits.And waits.

Finally, it comes. I don't know if he's feeling butterflies like I am, but he is all smiles. The moment he's been waiting for has finally come.

The bus driver is not smoking.

And then he's gone.

A lump rises in my throat and a few tears escape. What is this emotion? What is it about sending your first kid off to kindergarten? I walked back down the cul-de-sac with Clara, yet felt empty-handed. So I held her closer and appreciated the now. Then she got wiggly and demanded to "-aalk!" End of emotional moment.