Sunday, September 21, 2014

Sam Starts School

Oh my goodness... somehow we've finished the 3rd week of school and I'm only now finding the time to get our 'back to school' photos on here.  School start is nuts... school start up as a teacher and mom has proven to be even more busy.  Welcome to the world of school Sammy!
The day before the first day of kindergarten, Sam was enjoying crabapples with Gramma Connolley and his little wiggly tooth became VERY wiggly.  Grandpa got his fingers in there and before we knew it we had a tiny tooth to put under Sam's pillow.  His beautiful little face is making a change and he becomes more and more mature looking each day.
First day of school EVER photo!
I had painted a picture in my head as to what I thought this day would be.  We'd drive to school together, everyone a little nervous but really excited.  We'd walk up to the school hand in hand as a solid little trio and Sam would hold on extra tight.  He'd be welcomed into his classroom and we'd both be brave and no one would cry (that is until I got back to the car.)  Perfect, right.  Well, Shaun and Sam had come up with a different idea.  They decided and insisted that Sam ride the bus the first day.  I pushed back but they weren't having it.  So, our tiny little man boarded the bus.
And couldn't have been happier.  Not even a twinge of nervousness and never acknowledged the fact that he was doing something that was only for 'big kids' and that his mom was not impressed.  The bus drove away and we hoped in our car and raced to meet him at school.
We met him at the bus and found his entrance together.  He went in, took off his shoes and disappeared into school-land.  No wave, no good bye, no look back, no need for reassurance.  He went in with incredible confidence and curiosity, never worrying that he would need us or be lost or confused.  And I suppose, once I got over myself, that this is exactly what every parent wishes for their child.  That the picture I had dreamed up would have been harder on all of us and the one he created was simple and happy.  He amazes me each day and today might have been the biggest one to date.  I adore you little man... may school be a place that you love, where you find life long friends and make incredible memories, a place that fills your thirst for knowledge and you get to share your gifts with others.  I couldn't be more proud of you if I tried.