Well, they’re real life first graders now, and they were more than ready to start this new adventure. We went to a little meeting with their teacher a couple days before school actually started, and this made them even more excited to sit at their new big desks we filled with brand new school supplies. I got a good vibe from their teacher, and while having them all in the same class might present a few little annoyances for her, it really was the best decision for me, and I know she understands that. 
The next day was our last day of freedom. I wasn’t feeling well (still a little wiped out from strep the weekend before) so we didn’t have anything exciting planned. But I did tell them to write a few things on a paper that they really want to do on the last day of summer break. Making cookies was on all three lists (dance party, painting, computer, and playing in the sprinklers were a few more ideas they had) so we all made No-Bake cookies together. I’m confused by the fact that I don’t think I’ve made these with them before. But they loved every step, and were proud of their yummy treat. We need to make those more often. Pretty sure they were a major food group when I was growing up.
The next morning, they woke up bright and early, put on their new clothes we had laid out, cooperated while I took too many pictures, and headed to the school. They best word to describe these kids that morning is ecstatic. 
We met on the playground with the rest of the school for a flag ceremony. They were so excited to see which friends were in their class. It brought back memories of my own first days of school with all the excitement and anticipation. Then they walked in a line with their teacher leading the way into the school and that was that. For the next seven hour they were under someone else’s care. It’s so weird that I’m not feeding them lunch at the bar in our kitchen anymore, or hearing them play together during the day. I had a pit in my stomach the night before thinking about all the changes, and how this really marks the beginning of real life to me. They are ready, and I am ready, it’s just a change. 
After putting the baby down for a nap when I came home to a very quiet house, I couldn’t help but lie down myself for a quick rest. I mean, why not?! And of course, Costco was our first item of business after that. It’s wonderful having this time with the baby, and this time for myself. The kids are in good hands, and we are so happy to see each other when the day is over. We walk to and from school whenever the weather cooperates, and I love that time with them, hearing them talk excitedly about getting to school, and then about their day.
(Btw, best shopping buddy ever. Looks around and smiles for a while before silently drifting off to sleep.)
I’m surprised they still have so much energy when they come home. I clean up while they’re gone, and within minutes of them walking in the door, the art table and surrounding areas are filled with projects and papers. We’ve tried to get in a good routine with homework right after school, and they are learning what it means to work before play (it’s also been tricky to get them to not start projects before school, since we’ve always had mornings free to play, but they’re getting there.) They do seem to hit a wall in the evening where I can tell they are spent and ready for a good night’s sleep. All in all, I see good habits being learned, and I love seeing them grow and mature into this new lifestyle.
Oh, and they really miss baby sister while they’re gone. After thoroughly washing their hands, they smother her with kisses to make up for the time they missed. I have to remind them to let her breath sometimes. 
I know this year will go by too quickly as they always do, so I’m soaking up every minute, and am planning on being involved in their classroom whenever possible. I’m so grateful for kids who try hard, and for teachers who love what they do. And for some alone time, that too.
Hazel couldn’t be left out of the first day photo shoot :)
