Right before heading into Kindergarten Screening with one of his best friends since he was one year old:)
I know he will do well, but I know there will be struggles. As with any kid. But full day kindergarten just seems like too much for him....and me. I mean, I stay at home, we work on school stuff, so is it really necessary?? Having taught kindergarten, I remember telling parents that were struggling with whether to do half or full day that if they want what is best for their child, go with full day. (So glad they had the option!!) Kids leave kindergarten so much better prepared for first grade when they go full day. So much smarter because you can extend the day out. Now that I'm a mama, I think that's crazy. I'm selfish. Let them be babies. Let him be my baby. And not spend the majority of his day with another adult that doesn't understand him like I do. Yep, I've even looked into homeschooling.....I AM CRAZY.
After talking over ice cream with neighbors about it a few nights ago, tears filling my eyes yet again. My sweet neighbor said, "Honey, it is such a beautiful thing. And amazing. Each time something like this comes as a parent in your life, God manages to give you the grace you need when that time comes to see the beauty in it instead of the heartache. Be excited for his new adventure." God bless her....
But the day came and my sweet little five year left for school that morning looking much older than I wanted him to, even though he continued to keep his Winnie the Pooh and Tigger back pack in toe. Yes, my heart broke a little each time I watched him put it on the last few weeks, knowing its days are numbered for a "cooler" backpack.
Final breakfast as preschooler with the You Are Special Today plate...he requested cinnamon rolls:)
Final pic before leaving for school!
About to walk in the last time....
My sappy self had to take a picture as he walked away, and I cried as I did it....
Leaving school as a KINDERGARTNER!!!
Joshua with the classroom para...Mrs Bertels
With his teacher, Mrs. Youngsworth
Sadie celebrating with her buddies at the park. A group of us who have become close decided to treat the kids to grilled hot dogs and pot luck lunch at the park.
Sadie with her besties...are they seriously not the cutest things!? Love these girls!
Boys hanging out at the end of the table
Group picture to add to the 8th grade yearbook someday??? Sweet babies!
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Joshua Gene, you are an amazing, spirited, talented, smart, compassionate, silly, sensitive, faith filled, creative little boy with so much energy and heart to share with others. I love watching your grow and discover the world around you. There is no greater beauty than that. I am so thankful for the experiences you have had the last two years in preschool, positive as well as the tough times, and there have been plenty of tough with an active dreamer like you:). We have both grown because of them. And I am so heartbreakingly proud of you. I pray that we, as your parents can help you in the years to come to become a child that has an insatiable curiosity and appetite for learning. A child that always offers a hand to the new kid in class. Who makes others laugh, but never at the expense of someone else. A child that doesn't judge others, because, you acknowledge that you don't know the path God has asked that person to walk. That continues to march to the beat of his own drum and not follow the crowd, my little Ferdinand. Someone who uses his manners and is respectful of others and authority, regardless of how fair or unfair you think they may be. Who tries his hardest and gives his best effort even if you really don't want to. A boy that never looses the twinkle in his eye and the prayers in his heart. I pray that your teachers see you with all of your quirkiness and love you just the same. You are so special. And yes, I plan to keep you forever. And I love you to the moon and back. XOXO, Mama
Rest up, sweet boy...the summer will go way too fast....
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