Like a lot of other families, yesterday was the first day of school for us, it was a bittersweet day. I felt a mixture of excitement, anticipation, nervousness, and a little sadness when it was time to wake the kids up. It was the first day of 3rd grade for Ms. S and K-5 (formerly known as just kindergarten) for Mr. C. They were both up and ready in no time so getting ready and out the door went pretty smoothly. On the ride to school we talked about how exciting the first day of school was and how proud dad and I were of them starting another year. We dropped Mr. C off at his classroom first. He went right in, put his things in his cubby, and sat in his seat. No tears, no long looks goodbye, nothing. I did get a hug but it was rushed. So first kid down, one more to go. As we took Ms. S (the emotional one) to her room, I thought to myself "keep it together", she walked to her room, gave dad and I a hug and walked in. Again, no tears, no come back looks, nothing. She was searching the room for which of her friends was there and putting her things where they belong. V and I walked to the car and started driving home, that's when I let my tears fall. I was feeling so blessed to have a school where my children feel safe, where they know they are surrounded by teachers, friends, and other faculty who genuinely want to be there and will take care of them so there was no need for clinging on for mommy not to leave. I was happy that I had the privilege to take my two healthy, happy children to school, I saw so many children waiting for the bus on the way. I was nervous leaving the kids, it was the first time since June that I was going to be away from them for more than a few minutes. I also felt a little sad. When the routine of school sets in time will pass by so much quicker, in no time it will be Christmas, then Ms. S's birthday, then Mr. C's birthday then next thing graduation and college. We have such a short time with our children before they know everything and have no need for us and the first day of school is just a reminder of that. After a few minutes, I dried my tears and V and I drove to our quiet, empty house.
