a visit to kindergarten

N is in Kindergarten this year and his class has been talking about community helpers. His teacher asked me a few days ago if I would be willing to come and talk to the class. I told her yes as long as I didn't come right after the fireman visit (because that is a tough act to follow).

Today was the day. N woke up early and talked nonstop (which is really no different than any other day;) He was so excited he kept asking when we could leave for school! I told him we had to get out of our jammies first! My husband made the comment that at least he's not "intense" or anything.

The talk to his class was so much fun! Five year olds have such good questions and such interesting stories to tell. The secret to engaging the younger crowd is band aid and sucker (sugar free) give-aways:) I told them about all the jobs that I have had as an RN and finished with listen to your teacher and go to college!

I had such a great time and I think N did too!

Next up, I volunteered to read a book to M's class. Any suggestions?

First Day of School!!!

This morning started like any other. Soft little boy limbs tucked under fuzzy blankets as they lounge on the couch in the living room and rub the sleep from their eyes. This has been our morning routine all summer. There is one thing that I have learned as a mom and it is that kids love the sameness of routine. The family rituals that are performed everyday make them feel safe and loved and help them have a sense of belonging. But today is officially not summer. It’s the first day of school!

There is an excitement in the air. An energy. An anticipation. There will be so much to do, to explore, and to learn!

At least that’s how my day looks, I don’t know about the boys;)!

The morning routine rolled by without a hitch; clothes, shoes and backpacks were laid out the night before. School lunches were at the ready in the fridge.
I have been waiting for this day with equal parts excitement and dread since the boys were just toddlers… since the boys were just a thought in my head and a dream in my heart. This is the start of a new chapter in our lives. Their first day of all day school. How will we manage it? Will they be worn out and too tired to play in the evening? Evening time is all we will have now. Will we be able to squeeze all the family fun and togetherness into a block of time from 4-8? It seems too restrictive. Too limiting. Not enough “mama/little boy cuddle time.” Will they remember how much I love them?

I hope that I have helped them gain the confidence and self-assurance to make friends with their peers and listen to their teachers and speak out in class and stand up for themselves and stand up for others. All. On. Their. Own. I want them to hear about how bright and funny and good they are from someone that isn’t related to them.

This is my hope for them, my prayer.

We will embrace this new routine and make it our own.

(I couldn't get a decent shot to save my life, or their's!)

(What a proud boy!)

(M looks worried...or constipated!)