My Baby's First Day

Again, it has been wayyyyyyy to long since my last post! This summer has been lots and lots of fun and as a result, I have lots and lots of posts I need to catch up on. Today was a VERY big day. one I have been anticipating for quite some time. Arlo started his first day of Kindergarten. I really don't know how this happened. I know people tell you that it goes by fast, but I am really in shock that my baby is going to school already! Of course true to my type a personality. I researched schools like crazy prior to him going. I looked into a whole slew of charter schools, loved two, applied for both, and didn't get either. I was so devastated. I of course wanted the very best for Arlo, and our neighborhood school is unfortunately not somewhere I would want to send him. As I started researching the public schools, I found a little school called Midvalley Elementary. I had driven by multiple times, as it is just up the street from us but had kind of overlooked it because I was so hyper focused on the charter school thing. As I looked into it a bit more, the testing scores were good, and from the comments I read, It seemed like and area where parents were pretty involved. So I decided to go down and take a look at it. When I walked in, I immediately liked the vibe. Although the school is really old, it is kept in immaculate condition. I was warmly greeted by the school secretary and she was so helpful. She gladly answered all my questions (I had a lot) . The principle (who was new and very energetic) also came out and greeted me and Arlo. He got down on Arlo's level and talked to him for like 5 minutes. That really impressed me; I was sold! They instructed me what I would need to do to request for Arlo to go to the school, and as luck would have it, Arlo got approved. Soon after we went to the kindergarten orientation and when I met the kindergarten teachers I loved them both. One seemed like an excellent fit for Arlo, and we ended up getting her. Every step of the way I have been impressed with the school, the principle, and his teacher. She is so friendly, enthusiastic, and very organized. She really has a way with Arlo and seems to calm his nerves immediately. For the past couple of days I could tell Arlo has been pretty nervous about starting. When I asked him how he felt about starting school he replied "Well, I am pretty nervous, but that's normal to get nervous when your starting something new right?" what a logical little guy he is. Sometimes his understanding of things just amazes me. As the days have gotten closer, his anticipation has gotten higher. Yesterday he seemed pretty angsty and uptight. I knew it was because he was nervous about school. As a result mom has been nervous too. I just cant stand the thought of him having a hard time. But I know that is part of life, and important for him to go through. This morning when he woke up, it was like all of his anticipation was gone. He was his happy little self and got ready no problem. I told him that Dyl and I were going to go with him a bit early and hopefully meet some of the kids in his class. He said that sounded good and off we went! When we got there I could tell he was a bit overwhelmed but we met a few of the kids and then his teacher came out and had them line up. Knowing he is a bit shy, His teacher went up to him and warmly greeted him. He immediately let go of my hand and jumped in line. Both kindergarten teachers said a few things to the parents, and in they went. Once his little head disappeared behind the big door the waterwoks started. It is the beginning of everything... and the end of me being his world. Such and exciting and excruciating step all at the same time. As I looked around, I realized I was in good company. Five or so other momma's were looking pretty teary and dispondant. One mom started handing out kleenex's and we all started laughing. "Look at us! "she said "They are all just fine, but here we are crying like babies." we sat out and chatted for like 20 minutes not seeming to be able to leave, but one by one people stared thinning out until me and another mom was left. We talked about peeking our heads in the windows, but eventually decided against it. As I got in the car and drove away with Dyl, I was overcome with more tears. I knew it was not going to be the same. Soon my boy will be looking to others for answers and guidance. His world will expand. I will no longer be the center of his universe. Eventually when people ask him who he wants to marry when he grows up, he will understand that it's weird to say "My Mom" . Even though he has solemnly promised that he will never stop giving me cuddle breaks, holding my hand, and giving me kisses no matter where we are; my good sense tells me different. But right now for a few more short moments, its bliss. I love my Arlo. I can't believe he's my big five year old