Back to School

I was kind of surprised my the feelings I have had about my kids going back to school.  Usually I am thrilled about it, and count down those last days in August.  But this year was really different.  I liked having them around and having an open schedule everyday.  It was free, and easy, and though my house was never quiet or clean, it was nice to just hang out with my gang.  Maybe this summer was different because I didn't feel trapped.  If I had to get groceries or just needed a break, I could leave them with Alex.  I didn't do a lot of that, but just knowing I had the option, helped my sanity tons.  I am sad to see that all end.  And though we did a lot of fun stuff this summer there was so much more I wanted to do with them.  I'm going to miss them, and sad to have to say good by to my gang, and hello to my taxi-driver/ homework enforcer day job again.

 First out the door this morning were Alex and Nathan.  This is Nate's first year in middle school, and he was a mix of nervous and excited.  Last year when Alex headed off the middle school, I was a nervous wreck.  It is a hard thing sending your precious child into the eye of the pre-pubescent storm.  But this year I was cool as a cucumber.  It is a great school, and I have confidence that Nate is going to have a great time there.

Notice this picture is in front of our house.  They convinced Dad to take them to school, before mom, with her camera, could walk them to their 1st period classroom and make them take pictures with their new teachers.  Of course I wouldn't dare, but I couldn't resist the torturing them by threatening such a thing.

Next, Derek and Dylan, were off to their 4th grade class.  They are together again, and seem excited about it and about their teacher.  They were good enough to indulge their dear mom with a few photo ops.  I'll take it while I can still get it.  One stipulation, though.  I was not allowed to take a picture of them with their teacher.  "Mom, we don't know her."  Oh, but they will.  They promised me a teacher/student picture on the last day of school - but I am going to push for a shot at back to school night.

Of course the big story of the day is Caleb and his first day of kindergarten.  He has afternoon, and an amazing teacher.  This morning, though, when we were bringing the twins to school, he saw all the kids in his classroom and couldn't understand why he couldn't go in too.  He even had his backpack with him.  He didn't quite understand why we were leaving campus when it was the first day of school.  At home he came to me, with his backpack, every 15 minutes, asking if we could go please go to kindergarten now.

When the time finally came he was thrilled.  Unlike his brothers, he not only let me take his picture, but he wanted me to take lots of pictures.  Finally, a child who understands me!  When the time came, he kissed me - on the lips, in public (that's kindergarten, the most precious year when they aren't afraid to acknowledge you and show you affection in public.  I know it won't last, so I'll savor every peck, hug, and wave he wants to give me this year.)

Then he lined up with his classmates (he is definitely the tallest, and one of the youngest in his whole class. Who's surprised?), and they all filed into their class.

I went home, put Luke down for a nap, and took a nap myself.  I NEVER get naps, and I won't make it a habit, but it was a long summer, and I was tired.