Baby Steps No More

I've already groveled about posting McKenna's Birthday late. BUT....I guess there is always time for more groveling.

Along with McKenna turning five, came time for Kindergarten.  I was worried that she would HATE Kindergarten, because McKenna already complained that pre-school (a mere two and a half hours) was too long.  "I've had enough of my ABC's, Mom!", she would tell me.  What was she going to do when it was three-and-a-half hours of her ABC's?

Well, the big day arrived.  She had her outfit layed out the night before and her backpack - ready.   It was so sweet, because McKenna wouldn't eat at all that morning.  She just wanted to GET THERE.  She was nervous and excited all at the same time! 

Finally...it was TIME to go....and I couldn't help but get a little emotional when I saw my baby walking down the sidewalk to the car with, what seemed like, a GIANT backpack on her shoulders. 

She was so READY.  I knew it.  She knew it. 

Armed with cameras, the parents took turns capturing memories...

 She looked sooooo tiny up against the GIANT school wall.

On the Kindergarten playground, McKenna jumped right into playing.  I don't know why, but that surprised me.  Usually she's so anxious.  She did become a little overwhelmed as more kids showed up though, and kept looking to make sure I was close by.  I was.

 When it was finally time to line up...I could see that my "Little Bug" was the tiniest one in the class!  I wasn't worried though - her stature is tiny, but her spirit is large! 

   

I was happy to see Kenna's excitement and surprise when she recognized one of her friends, Isaac, there too.  A familiar face helps even the biggest-of-kids feel more comfortable, when you're starting something new.  (Isaac is the boy in the brown shirt, above, right next to McKenna.)  I guess the two 'newbies' found comfort in having one another there, because when Berkeley checked on Kenna during their recess that day, she said Isaac and McKenna were out on the playground....holding hands.  

I felt a little lonely after they followed their teacher inside and the doors shut.  McKenna's 'Elementary Journey' had officially begun.  It will move fast from this point forward. 

I paused for a moment and wondered what I would do first.  For the last eight years, all daytime activities had been centered around Berkeley and/or McKenna.  I was no longer the mother of toddlers. This was my 'Rite of Passage' too!  What would I do first?  The possibilities were limitless!  Three-and-a-half hours?  Really? 

So, I did what any smart, self-respecting, Mother would do....

I went home and took a nice, guilt-free, nap.