For the first time ever, the kids went off to school in pouring rain. We took the group photo of them huddled on the porch. They looked pretty happy and ready for new adventures.
We’re not exactly fashion-driven around here, but we try to be presentable. Did you notice Lexie’s fabulous boots? She’s also wearing what I believe are referred to as jeggings. She’s lucky she inherited her father’s long legs. Lily wears dresses 99 percent of the time, but she opted for pants today because she couldn’t resist the pink plastic butterfly necklace that came with the pink top we found at Gordmans. (Do you have Gordmans where you live? We think Gordmans is fun because they have a little of everything.) The boys are wearing whatever.
The girls waited patiently for the bus. We were happy that it was a warm rain.
I said a special prayer for Will today. He’s my outdoors-loving boy and I hope he doesn’t chafe too much at having to be mostly inside. I don’t know his new teacher very well, but I hope she understands that a boy who must run around outside might occasionally need to get out from behind a desk and lie on the floor to do his assignments.
A mad dash for the bus and they were off.
As I watched them drive away, I reminded myself that I did my best to prepare them for another year of school. I said a little mantra to quiet my worries: My children know they are loved. Their bodies and minds are healthy and strong. They are kind and compassionate. They are open to possibilities—making new friends, learning new things. They have teachers who are patient and committed to helping them become their best. They will come home with stories unique to each of them and their own special ways of seeing the world.
I went back into the eerily quiet house, grateful for the faithful dog at my side. I allowed myself one melancholy cup of coffee. Halfway through, I cheered up, thinking about all the things I’d get done today. At the top of the list was the School Bus Cake. I got up and got busy because they’d be home before I knew it.
Aren’t they beautiful! And those smiles…talk about blessings! Have fun listening to the stories, eating the ritual bus cake and just enjoying the quiet (for a minute). Love you all, Grammy
Love first day of school pictures. Made me smile to hear you describe the girls outfits, and the boys in “whatever.” 🙂 Ah, boys! Hope their day was great. I’m sure heading home to your school bus cake was great too.