Lydia's First Day of Kindergarten

Lydia woke up bright and early on her first day of kindergarten. The night before, she had requested scrambled eggs, bacon and toast for breakfast, so here she is enjoying her meal. She had also helped me pack her lunch the night before, and laid out her clothes, shoes and barrettes.

The night before, for Family Home Evening, we read a book about starting kindergarten (which I could hardly finish because I was crying), and gave Lydia this locket. Before we gave it to her, we all put kisses inside it, so she could bring them with her to school and remember how much we love her.Here she is outside our door, ready to head to the bus stop. We wanted to drive her to school, but she was too excited to take the bus. I love taking pictures of the backs of my kids' heads. Someday I will have enough for a scrapbook! The moment she had been waiting for finally arrived! She followed Braden onto the bus, and was off to her very first day of school. But she knew the drill: turn and smile for the picture! I couldn't help crying as she sped away in her bus.

I remember when Braden started kindergarten. I was allowed to take him into his classroom and take pictures of him at his desk. I could hardly see through all the tears as I walked down the hall that day. It is not that I worry that they won't be treated well, it is just that it is such a huge milestone, and another step toward independence. Lydia obviously enjoyed her first day (and I survived it as well). Here she is at the end of the day, getting off the bus. After this picture was taken she did a happy dance and sang, "I love, love, love school!" I am so glad that she loves it.
And I'm proud of her progress and growth, and wonder if I am growing in a similar way as I help her to spread her wings and take flight.