First Day of School

Anyone who knows me well knows how much I dread the first day of school. However, this year the first day of school included immense gratitude for the fact that I was able to be there to witness my children's important day. 3 days before school started, I found myself being unexpectedly admitted to the hospital with a severe kidney infection (which also put me into labor at 26 weeks pregnant). I sat in that hospital bed for 3 days mourning the loss of those last few days of summer with my children, and begging the doctor to get me home before the first day of school.  I missed my children tremendously during the time I was there, and felt so grateful for the wonderful husband I have. Ryan stepped in and took over like a pro. In the past (during unexpected hospital stays) people have asked me why I don't have Ryan come stay with me at the hospital while my children go to neighbors. Of course I would like him there with me, holding my hand and wiping my tears-- but I find far greater comfort knowing that he is home with my children making sure that their world is not turned upside down just because mine is. I love that he is familiar enough with the way our house runs that he can take over without a wrinkle.
It wasn't looking like they were going to let me home in time, and the thought of missing such a milestone broke my heart. Perhaps it is because of precisely how much I despise the first day that we make it such a big deal at our house. I want it to be the easiest, most exciting and positive day for my children. I knew that they could survive it without their Mother, but I didn't want them to have to. Me being there and driving them to school was tradition. So the night before school started, when I was being wheeled out of the hospital at 8 p.m., I was so relieved. My children were so happy to see me, and I was so joyful to be there. I made it home in time to wash my girls hair and paint their nails to match the clothes we had picked out for the first day. I got to give my children the annual pep talk as I tucked them each in. In the morning I basked in their enthusiasm, and felt the familiar mix of anxiety and excitement as I watched them meet their teachers and walk into their classrooms. It was still sad to see them growing so fast, but the sadness was eclipsed by profound gratitude that I get to be the mother of such amazing people.

Cameron's first day of 9th grade. Isn't he such a good looking kid? When did he get so tall?

Kyle's first day of 7th grade. He has taken to Jr. High like a pro-- and I am SO proud of him.

Kailani started middle school (5th). I love her go-getter attitude and that she is doing so well in her school-work.

Karen is in the 2nd grade, and my only elementary-er for the time being. She is being a trooper and goes most days without any problem.

I look forward to a great year filled with many "firsts" for my ever-growing little ones. I am grateful for the blessing it is to be a part of their story and have them be such an intricate part of mine.