Yesterday morning I woke Caroline up.
That statement alone is something I never thought I’d say.
Anyway, I woke her up with a kiss on her cheek and whispered, “Wake up, baby. Today is Kindergarten!” She immediately sat straight up and yelled, “IT’S GOING TO BE A GREAT DAY!”
I just wish she’d been more excited.
I made her some eggs for breakfast even though I knew I was scrambling chicken embryos in vain because she’d never actually eat them. But it made me feel better to make the effort because it seemed like a first day of Kindergarten thing to do.
After pushing around some eggs on a plate, she ran to get dressed. We pulled her hair back and packed her little school bag. All the while, I managed to hold it together.
Right before we walked out the door, we conducted a marathon photo session.
I tried to shoot some video in the car on the way to school, but she shut me down. Apparently, she needed to “concentrate”.
As we walked into the school, hand in hand, I felt my eyes start to fill with tears. Just about that time, she dropped my hand and said, “I know where to go”.
So P and I just followed.
Honestly, I don’t know that I’ve ever been so proud of someone.
I also don’t know if I’ve ever felt as strongly that my heart was on the outside of my body.
When we arrived at the classroom, her teacher asked if she’d brought her lunch and Caroline informed her she’d be buying her lunch. The teacher said she could choose between chicken nuggets or a turkey sandwich.
Caroline said, “Meatloaf”.
Because isn’t that what every kid wants?
In the end, she chose the turkey sandwich.
P and I hugged and kissed her goodbye, then walked out of the school and back to the car. We prayed for her and that’s when the tears began to fall. I knew I was on the verge of a full on ugly cry.
But look!
I went to the baby store and bought a new baby!
Oh I kid.
Some of our dear friends lost their grandmother last week and they called me to ask if I could watch their twin girls on Monday morning while they went to the funeral. I had to think about it for a moment because if I kept the girls that would interfere with my original plan of sitting on my bed with a bowl of M&M’s, crying and watching old videos of Caroline.
I think I made the right choice.
Although I will say it is dangerous hormonal territory to drop your only child off at Kindergarten and then go spend four hours with some precious, squishy babies.
It was finally time to pick Caroline up and after navigating the seventh circle of carpool hell, I finally saw my girl. Her smile couldn’t have been bigger. As we drove away, I asked, “How was your day?”
“IT WAS GREAT! I’M GOING AGAIN TOMORROW!”
So I think she liked it.
Apparently she had a very full day playing with new friends whose names she can’t recall, eating a “THE MOST DELICIOUS” turkey sandwich (doubtful) in the cafeteria, and going to “P.E.R.” in the gym which is “BIGGER THAN OUR HOUSE!”
Right before bed last night, she was telling me more about her day. She said, “I saw my friend Catherine in the cafeteria today!”
I asked, “Did you say hi?”
“Yes, I said hi! And then I learned you’re not allowed to yell across the cafeteria.”
God bless her teacher.
Jennifer, Snapshot says:
Yes, God bless Kindergarten teachers who have to teach spirited young ‘uns the rules of life. . . .
I’m glad it was a good day. I didn’t have as much of a problem with Amanda starting school as I did with her ending preschool. Her whole last week, I just cried and cried.
August 26th, 2008 at 7:17 am
Beth says:
What a precious recap of her first day!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:23 am
sara says:
So cute! It sounds like she’s got Kindergarten all figured out!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:31 am
Sara says:
You’ve got a real life Junie B Jones!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Shara says:
Glad to hear she had a great first day!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:36 am
CarolinaMama says:
We just wanted to say “Go Caroline!” It’s awesome the way God had plans to keep you occupied!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Jennifer says:
“And then I learned you’re not supposed to yell across the cafeteria.” hahahaha
That just cracks me up!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:39 am
Margie says:
Learning all the important things first. Hope she likes all her sandwiches at the “K”. My granddaughter didn’t want “that kind of ham” on her’s and threw it, and yeah, you guessed it, started a food fight.
August 26th, 2008 at 7:43 am
Amy from Texas says:
That is really cute! I understand that yelling thing. I was so worried my kindergartener would be so loud all day. The more excited they get, the louder they shout! too funny. Now today, you can get out that candy and videos. ha!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:44 am
Jen@OurDailyBigTop says:
You couldn’t ask for a better first day. I’m hoping for the same excitement from my kids next week.
August 26th, 2008 at 7:45 am
hulagirlatheart says:
Such a big day. I remember it well. Prepare yourself for crying when they enter high school, too. Whew! Where does the time go?
August 26th, 2008 at 7:46 am
Shelly W says:
Oh, so sweet. I got tears in my eyes just thinking of you and your husband praying together in the car. It does rip your heart out to let them go, doesn’t it?
Just one piece of picture advice . . . take your first-day-of-school pictures in the same place every year. We take pictures outside our front door, and it’s neat to be able to line them up and see how the girls have grown. This year I sent my oldest off to her junior year in high school. Who would have thought, on that first day of kindergarten, that she’d turn out to be six feet tall (!) and as lovely as she is today? *sigh*
August 26th, 2008 at 7:46 am
kay says:
Oh, I KNEW God would take care of you. He is so good!!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:49 am
rrmama says:
Glad she had a great first day! I think playing babies was a much better choice. Although the M&M’s sound heavenly too.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:04 am
lavonda says:
Wow, you are bringing back some strong memories for me. You sound just like I felt on that first day of Kindergarten. both times! and espcially with my baby, because when SHE went, I really was home alone all day. and Target can only do so much to ease the pain, ya know?
I found this poem a long time ago (have no clue who it’s by) and would love to share it with you to commemorate your first week of Kindergarten:
Nothing—
When children come home at the end of the day
The question they’re asked as they scurry to play
is “What did you do at school today?”
And they answer they give makes you sigh with dismay,
“Nothing. I did Nothing today!”
Perhaps ‘Nothing’ means that I played with blocks,
or counted to ten, or sorted some rocks.
Maybe I painted a picture of red and blue;
or heard a story of a mouse that flew.
Maybe I watched the fish eat today,
or went outside on the swings to play.
Maybe today was the very first time
that my scissors followed a very straight line.
Maybe I sang a song from beginning to end,
or played with a special, brand new friend.
When you’re in Kindergarten and you’re heart has wings
‘Nothing’ can mean so many, many things.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:04 am
Robyn says:
I could seriously squeeze her.
And yes, she looks like her daddy. You were right.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:06 am
Ris says:
This is too funny…got baby fever now?
Your big girl did awesome! I would have been tearing up too. So cute with her little backpack!
Just found your blog! Nice to “meet” a fellow homegrown Texan!(my blog is private…shoot me your email address if you would like access)
-Ris
August 26th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Emily says:
I thought she was bringing her own lunch, yo.
Glad everyone survived the first day of school!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:14 am
Carol says:
You made it through the 1st day! I have a very similar photo of my oldest child heading down the hall in “I know where to go” mode! : )
August 26th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Kelly @ The Feathered Nest says:
Precious! There is nothing like the firts day of kindergarten- you will never forget that feeling.
(By the way, could she be any more of her daddy’s girl? They look like two peas in a pod!)
August 26th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Kelly @ The Feathered Nest says:
I meant “first” - sorry, I never remember to check for typos:-)
August 26th, 2008 at 8:16 am
Kelley says:
Oh, bless her. Just wait until she has the school lunch meatloaf–she’ll be beggin’ for that turkey sandwhich!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:18 am
Jill says:
It was nice hearing her on the video the other day, it made reading about her first day of K more real. My Olivia watched and said “Is that my new friend we are adopting?” I said No, but she is starting K like you, then she said,”We could sit together and share phonics letters.” Good thing they are not together, there might be the first coup in history of two kindergartners in a cafeteria. Enjoy the journey.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:20 am
Tara says:
Oh Big Mama. My four kids have spent the last 9 days sick rotating through fevers, earaches, headaches, stomachaches and worse. Your blog was just what I needed today! I’m coming back, just to read the lines about “But look! I went to the baby store and bought a new baby!” and “then I learned you’re not allowed to yell across the cafeteria.” So if you see multiple hits from MN today it isn’t a stalker. Its a Mom desperate for some humor!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:20 am
Jen says:
Oh my word. Everytime I read first day of Kindergarten stories, I bawl.
As the mom of a 4 year old, I know a year from now, I will pack my first and only baby off to school, and my heart just isn’t ready. I just can’t take the thought of it! I’m praying he and I will both be ready, but honestly it was just yesterday that I was up at night feeding him.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:24 am
Mama Belle says:
And so it begins …
Love all the pics. You did the proper Mommy-thing by taking the pics, the breakfast, and the crying.
You go, Caroline! She is totally gonna rock kindergarten.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:24 am
Kelly says:
Please let my Harper be as outgoing as Caroline. Bless your heart - you made it through the first day. I hope it gets easier each day!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:26 am
Kate says:
I am new to your blog, I love it! I’m so glad her first day went well, my oldest will start next year…crazy!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:29 am
Rocks In My Dryer says:
Congratulations! She is so precious–I love that dress.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:29 am
Ohiomom9977 says:
My daughter starts kindergarten today - I feel your pain
It’s amazing how fast they grow isn’t it?!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Tamara says:
How totally adorable is she? What wonderful spirit and enthusiasm!
And I love your blouse!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:35 am
meredith says:
I pray my children will be like Caroline. I was terrified to leave my mom at that age. I cried the first day of kindergarten, but when I met my teacher I was just fine. Then I started first grade, where my teacher was not as warm and cuddly, and I continued to cry every morning for about a month. No joke.
So, I love seeing Caroline so excited! What a treasure!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:36 am
Cindy-Still His Girl says:
Congratulations, little mama. Big stuff for both of you. I love your mother’s heart.
And I recognize that backpack!
It is adorable and perfect for her!
Oh- and when you are bored with that shirt you are wearing in that pic, I would be happy to provide a new home for it. Love it.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:36 am
Cindy-Still His Girl says:
PS- loved getting to meet you and hug you this weekend. You’re gorgeous and gracious and I heart you.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:37 am
Amy says:
I am so glad she had a good day. She will probably be very good for Kindergarten
August 26th, 2008 at 8:41 am
Amy Beth @ Ministry So Fabulous! says:
I wondered all day about how it went… so glad to know.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:50 am
Brickhouse says:
You need to get some Junie B. Jones books to read with Caroline!!! She is in kindergarten and she learns lessons about raising her voice at school. When the boys and I would read these books, I would laugh out loud. Her kindergarten year is funnier than her 1st grade year, but we read them ALL!!!
Enjoy.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:51 am
Racer says:
I love that in Kinder you can play all day with friends whose names you can’t remember!
August 26th, 2008 at 8:53 am
Musings of a Housewife says:
LOL! Sounds like the perfect first day. We do our first day of K next week. I think I need to call my financial adviser and ask him to move some of our money into Kleenex stock.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Dena says:
What wonderful memories you just brought back for me. I was sure I just sent our twin girls off to kindergarten last week, but the time has flown and in actuality they recently went off to college. So, trust me when I say I can understand the feeling of having your heart outside your body.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:57 am
lori says:
So glad your big girl loves her school. The fact that she can go to school and thrive speaks highly of her home life, she is happy and secure… And just borrow those twins everyday and you’ll be ok too.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Jill (CDJ) says:
That is a girl after my own heart! I bet she makes every day fun!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:07 am
Kim says:
Oh, doesn’t your heart beat out of your chest when you try to hold it together and drop off on that first day. Chocolate is a big lifesaver!!
So glad her first day was so wonderful!!!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:07 am
Yoli says:
That is just precious!!! She’s a keeper!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:08 am
chupieandjsmama says:
She looks so sweet!! HUGS to you. It’s so hard watch them leave the nest, even if it’s Kindergarten. It’s just the first step but we know that there’s a next and next until they leave the nest completely. I know that it is the job that God gave us to do, but my heart has a hard time accepting that
August 26th, 2008 at 9:09 am
Alicia @ Experiencing Each Moment says:
Wow, this makes me so emotional. My son starts 1 week from today! So smart of you to make plans that first day!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:11 am
BecomingMe says:
Oh that is so sweet.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:21 am
annie says:
When I saw you on Saturday, I thought Monday was the day, and I started to say something to you across the bench but wasn’t near enough to give you a hug in case you cried. You have such a sweet heart. And your humor will serve you well over the next few years. You’re in my prayers this week. Love, Annette
August 26th, 2008 at 9:22 am
annie says:
PS Just wait until you experience the first day of college–but maybe she’ll be an Aggie and that will be serious consolation. Smiles to you, Annette
August 26th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Scratchin' the Surface says:
Sounds like a pretty normal first day of Kindergarten for you and for her and likely for the teacher too. xoxo
August 26th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Makila says:
I too sent my first to Kindergarten last week. Today was day four of dropping him off and he wanted to go inside by himself so I let him. I wonder if I’ll get teary eyed all year long? Thanks for sharing.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Jennifer says:
“Making the decision to have a child - it’s wonderous. It’s to decided forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body”
-Elizabeth Stone
August 26th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Kelly says:
Congrats on making through the first day of Kindergarten! Sounds like she had a blast. I can’t wait to hear more about Caroline at school. Your daughter cracks me up!
God Bless!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:41 am
Melissa says:
Hi, I’ve been a reader of your terrific blog for a month or so. Thanks for sharing this experience! I got a bit teary eyed myself and I don’t even have kids yet!!!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Natalie @ I AM (not) says:
First of all, the reference to chicken embryos made my stomach turn. I’ll try not to think of them that way tomorrow morning.
Second, she’s a sweetie. And beautiful.
Third, why am I posting a comment like it s sermon?
August 26th, 2008 at 9:51 am
Karen {simply a musing blog} says:
I love your daughter’s outlook on life - she just seems like a “bright side” kind of gal.
Glad her first day went so well - and that you were able to hold it together until you got out to the car. The ugly cry is never good for the kids to see on their very first day of school.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:54 am
Kelli says:
I am so glad that y’all survived the first day of kinder! I was driving past the school in our neighborhood yesterday and saw all the eager little kinder kids and I got choked up…. and my daughter is only 4 1/2 months old!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:56 am
april says:
cracking up about learning not to yell across the cafeteria! she’s going to do JUST FINE!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:56 am
Addie says:
YAY! How Fun! Congrats on this new milestone … she’s such a cutie.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:57 am
Katrina (Callapidder Days) says:
Aw, what a big girl, on her big day. Great recap. I love that she asked for meatloaf. Too cute!
I sent my 9-year-old off to fourth grade today and had to come hug on my 2-year-old. Some days, I’m ready to sign him up for preschool, just for a little peace and quiet. But other days, I’m happy to keep him little for a while longer.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:05 am
Amanda says:
Homegirl wanted some meatloaf. I love it. Excellent choice of first day outfits, Caroline!
August 26th, 2008 at 10:12 am
shayne says:
I hate to say it sweet lady, but it doesn’t get much easier. My husband and I were praying over our kids the night before school started (she’s a sophomore, he’s in 8th grade) and we both started crying. Mostly because we realized our precious daughter will only be with us for about 2 more years.
Sweet heaven help us.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Wanda says:
So blasted funny!
I remember when my kids would be sharing about their newly made friends at school…and when I asked their names…they would say….Um, I haven’t got that yet!
Every single year/phase of our 3 kids lives….we have said….”this has been the best year yet!”
We just love them more and more every single day.
We’re in the teen years now…..Sr,Soph,& 8th gr.
They just keep getting better.
Party on…Caroline!
August 26th, 2008 at 10:21 am
Susan says:
Glad to hear she had a good first day. We always have good first day here as well. Then at about the 2 week mark it really sinks into their skull that this is an every.day.thing. until June. Then the drama starts.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Robin (PENSIEVE) says:
If you ever find reason to sell Caroline to the circus, I will pay good money for her because THEN I would have someone to eat my meatloaf. Cause it’s REAL good but my own children aren’t inclined to agree :/.
I think you should be voted “Mother of the Year” for that accomplishment alone.
Think of all the calories those squishy babies saved you from, not to mention the swollen, puffy eyes.
Sweet recap, she’s well on her way :).
(p.s. I did have a sudden revelation yesterday that maybe I insulted you/her, but I hopehopeHOPE you totally understood what I meant and gave me full benefit of the doubt. Cause I don’t think I have an intentionally mean bone in my body. Sometimes unintentional, never on purpose. But you know this, right?
).
August 26th, 2008 at 10:27 am
kelli says:
*sigh*
Think I could get my baby to hold MY hand down the hall to her class next Tuesday for her first day of her sophomore year?
Doubtful.
Or my other baby on Monday on his first day as a freshman?
More doubtful…
But, the ugly cry will be in full force in the parking lot. Mama will be a puddle.
I’m so proud of Caroline
She has grown up so much in the two years I’ve been around the blog … You’re doing a great job there, Melanie.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Jackie Sue says:
That is great! thanks for the laugh. Enjoyed getting to say hey at the fiesta. You are even prettier in person
August 26th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Katie says:
What a fun, lovely, funny, heart-rending little post.
Your little girl cracks me up - much the way I anticipate being cracked up by my own little lady (once she, you know, learns to speak).
Still trying to figure out how to avoid ever having her grow up, while at the same time NOT having to have a completely dependent-upon-me person in my home FOREVER. No progress yet.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:48 am
Sunni says:
I’ve been monitoring the mental status of moms sending their kids to kindergarten for the first time yesterday since I’m dreading Ava’s 1st day in 3 years. But so far, the consensus has been…somehow you make it through, and the new kindergarteners have a blast!!! Gives me hope that I won’t drive my car off a bridge when our day comes. I hope Caroline enjoys her cafeteria food again today, and has fun at PER.
P.S. Amanda said she enjoyed getting to talk with you so much! Glad y’all had fun!
August 26th, 2008 at 10:51 am
Diana says:
Oh bless you! I have three kids and not one of them even gave me a courtesy leg hugging (pulling) or even a tear on their first days of school! I felt a little ripped off! Healthy, independent little boogers!
Next week I send my oldest off to high school and public school for the first time. Think he’d be offended if I followed him with my camera? Sigh.
My little two are starting at a new school for 1st and 2nd grade, I needed the reminder about how quickly they’ll make new friends! Bless you!
August 26th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Stephanie(ocean mommy) says:
It was so nice to meet you this weekend. I’m still in complete awe of those jeans you had on Saturday night.
I’m glad you had those sweet little babies to love on after you dropped Caroline off! I cried ALL day on my oldest’s first day of school. I even cried in the carpool line. She thought I was weird and told me to dry it up…it was just school. In the kindest of ways of course!
Blessings,
steph.
August 26th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Tater Mama says:
I promise you that all the other Kindergarten teachers are jealous of Caroline’s teacher! There are some kids that every teacher wants, and there’s no doubt that Caroline is one of them because children like Caroline make you look forward to the day.
August 26th, 2008 at 11:10 am
Honey says:
I prayed for her too (and for you)!!!
August 26th, 2008 at 11:15 am
Anna Willett says:
that little girl of yours is hilarious!!! and you are pretty funny too, i guess.
August 26th, 2008 at 11:15 am
Anna Willett says:
lol
August 26th, 2008 at 11:16 am
maria says:
Compared to my 10 year old who woke up yesterday and said into his pillow…”It’s a dark, dark, day”
Sigh, I miss Kindergarten.
August 26th, 2008 at 11:28 am
Fuschia says:
My nephew called to tell me he started kindergarten and he “didn’t even cry”. At which point, I did!
I don’t know how y’all do it…I’m not letting mine leave the house until they are 25! You think I’m kidding, don’t you?
August 26th, 2008 at 11:31 am
SweetBee says:
At a school in our area, they have ‘Tears and Tissues’ for the parents of kindergarteners. After the parents take their child to class, they are invited to the cafeteria for coffe, muffins and a pack of tissues.
So glad Caroline liked school.
August 26th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Big Nanny says:
I took my daughter to college last Thursday. My heart now lives in another city. I wrote about it on my blog last week. It’s one of the most pitiful post that I have ever written, but I know when I look at it a year from now, it’s going to make me laugh.
Happy Kindergarten! I suggest you start mentally preparing for college….today!
August 26th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Smellyann says:
This kid of yours is as hilarious as her mama!
August 26th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Beth_C says:
Sounds like a great first day! I hope it goes as well for Peter who starts on Thursday. He’s very shy and he’s very nervous. My praying has already begun.
August 26th, 2008 at 11:47 am
Aggiema (Michelle) says:
Way to go Big Mama–you survived your first day of Kindergarten!
August 26th, 2008 at 11:57 am
Amanda says:
“Yes, I said hi! And then I learned you’re not allowed to yell across the cafeteria.”
Oh that’s PRECIOUS! I asked my oldest if he would be sure to say “hi” to his little sister in the hall at school (she’s starting K too) and his reply was “We’re not allowed to talk in the halls!” NOW he chooses to follow the rules!
I’m glad she had a good day!
August 26th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Way More Homemade (Donna) says:
I wasn’t even close to crying on the first day of Kindergarten until her teacher handed me a notecard with a little poem printed on it… attached to a package of Kleenex. Seriously. I was fine until she enabled me.
Glad your girl had a good first day.
August 26th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
PartyofFive says:
Sounds like a great first day! I am sure she will have a great year.
August 26th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Tara Dew says:
Melanie,
It was so nice to meet you this weekend in San Antonio! You are just as sweet and beautiful in real life as you are on the blog!
I was praying for you all day as you sent your little one off to school. She looked mighty grown up! I know you were proud!!! I hope that she continues to enjoy her school career as much as she enjoyed her first day!
Much love to you!
August 26th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Fran says:
What a precious bundle of girl you have there Melanie!!! I just love your momma’s heart.
Hugs,
Fran
August 26th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
room for grace says:
Exactly what time do you have to wake up to look that good before 8 am?
Great pictures!
Cheers to the first day of school!
August 26th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
laura says:
I had to comment on this one…there is alump in my throat and tears in my eyes. My 1st and 3rd grader are at school now too and I can’t stand it! Watching them grow up is hard and fun all at the same time. You are doing this so well!
August 26th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
jackie w says:
I loved the “Yes, I said hi! And then I learned you’re not allowed to yell across the cafeteria.”
My daughter insisted on buying a t-shirt that said “I got a A+ in Talking.” I am sure her new teacher will love it, not!
August 26th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Superchikk says:
Oh, so sweet. I actually remember my first day of kindergarten, and it seems that Caroline will have a great one to remember too.
I’m already wondering how I’m going to do with dropping my guy off at Kid’s Day Out for the first time on Thursday. I’m sure I’ll get over it eventually and enjoy the time to eat M&M’s.
August 26th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Christine says:
Congrats to Caroline for an awesome first day! That is so exciting! I remember everything about the first day of kindergarten, including changing my mind at the last minute about what color sash to wear with my pink and blue flowered dress! (Went with the blue!;)
Big kudos to you for doing LPL, the Siesta Fiesta AND the first day of kindergarten in the same 4 days! Eeek! I’d be a emotional puddle in a corner somewhere! hugs!
August 26th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Michelle says:
I’m so glad she had such a wonderful first day! It seems like just yesterday mine were starting kindergarten and today they started 10th and 7th grades. It goes fast!
August 26th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
lissilulu says:
It probably wasn’t so wise of me to read about her first day of Kindergarten on an emotionally charged day,huh?
tearing up here…
She is a doll. Good that she enjoys it..it would be even harder if she hated it huh?
Lori
August 26th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
hannah r says:
I just have to say that you guys are not allowed to look that put together that early in the morning. I believe proper mommy protocol is pajamas and mussy hair- preferably rats nest.
August 26th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Cynthia says:
I don’t think I’ve ever commented here, but read frequently. I just had to tell you that I love your stories. The last 10 months have been so difficult in our family and I can usually count on you to make me smile! You did it again! I love it that even you are dressed nicely for the first day of K. Way to go!!!
Blessings!
August 26th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
sweethomealagirl says:
awww…you’re gonna make me ugly cry! she is just precious!
7 circle of carpool hell…hahaha! of course it’s always that bad on the first day. the only problem is that, if it’s anything like ours, it doesn’t get much better!
August 26th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Cindy says:
Caroline cracks me up! I’m glad she had a great day!
August 26th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Mary Ellen Cook says:
Fun to hear it from the other side!!!! We are off to a great start! Love, Mrs. Cook
August 26th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
Sufficient Grace says:
What happend to “bring it, yo”??? I thought she was going to bring her lunch and I couldn’t wait to hear about little pudding cups and food fights and trading of little goldfish!! SO GLAD she had a wonderful first day!!!
August 26th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
Heather says:
Someone said you have your own Junie B. Jones but I think you have your own little Ramona Quimby. I would suggest you reading all the Ramona books to her but it might “give her some bright ideas” as my mom use to say.
August 26th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Julie says:
I think she is the cutest thing since sliced bread! Kinda like Junie B. Jones. K-5 is going to KILL me next year and Mary Austin is not going to care!
Julie
August 26th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
Jennifer says:
Glad it went well.
Caroline looked adorable.
I love what you had on, yo.
August 26th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Indiana Keetha says:
Her “first day of school” look is GORGEOUS!!!
My youngest daughter REFUSED to even let me TAKE her to her first day of Kindergarten - - - she INSISTED on riding the bus. So, I waved good-bye to her at the front door and then WORRIED all day about how she was - - - all unnecessarily because that girl has been fine ever since - - - and she’s 22 years old now and STILL mighty FINE.
August 26th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Lacey says:
What?? No Caroline inspired outfit for the first day?
August 26th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
sheila@momfessions says:
Congrats on making it through the big day! :o)
August 26th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Judy says:
I don’t want to discourage you or anything but I cried buckets when we dropped our son off to school too……at Texas A&M!!!
A mom is a mom no matter how old they are!!
August 26th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
k&c's mom says:
The most perfect of all posts. This is what blogging was invented for.
August 26th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Missy @ Its Almost Naptime says:
So, I guess we’ll be seeing mini-Carolines around June of 09?
August 26th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Flipfloppingmamma says:
Just found your site from another blog. Your daughter is too cute! Mine went to K on Monday for the first time too. I love how sure they are and how we are big puddles in the car.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Jmom says:
Awesome recap! I am so glad she likes it.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Elaine says:
I was about to cry just reading this. I will be in the same situation next year myself. She is blessed to have such wonderful parents and she looks so cute too! : )
Cute baby, where’s the other one?
August 26th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Dana Hall McCain says:
I’m just jealous that you have a child that will eat meatloaf…
Really, I want to thank you for the great info you shared at SheSpeaks back in June. You’re one of the reasons I’ve become a blogger and I LOVE it!
August 26th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Hilary says:
Precious, precious, precious! Glad each of you are adjusting.
August 26th, 2008 at 9:47 pm
Dana Hall McCain says:
I’m just jealous that you have a child that will eat meatloaf…
Really, I want to thank you for the great info you shared at SheSpeaks back in June. You’re one of the reasons I’ve become a blogger and I LOVE it!
I have a kindergartener, too. Who will not eat meatloaf. Or any type of sandwich. Or…well, you get the idea…
August 26th, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Jessica says:
Sounds like it was a great day. And both of you girls looked so cute for her first day (And P too of course…does he always have sunglasses either on his head or hanging from his neck?)
August 26th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Julie H. says:
Too precious! Glad she had such a great day!
Take care,
Julie
August 26th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Rachel says:
New to your blog - but I knew it had to be good as I see you are on EVERYONE’s favorites - so me too!!
Your daughter is a doll!! I have an almost 5 year old starting preschool next week and I am nervous wreck! Your sweet story made me smile and gave me hope!!
August 26th, 2008 at 10:42 pm
Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates says:
Precious! What a special day. Amazing how they seem so grownup in kindergarten even though they’re still small.
August 27th, 2008 at 12:00 am
susan says:
Your daughter will always entertain you!
I just got off the LPM blog and came back to encourage you/pray for you. You have written about how God has really worked in your life, the struggles, the personal reflections; He has really placed you in a unique outreach with this Blog, AllAccess, your Bloggy friends - how I enjoy and get encouragement from the daily fun stories and inspirational stories. Much better than reading the Yahoo news every day! Many Blessings!
August 27th, 2008 at 12:46 am
Chelle' says:
“And then I learned it’s not ok to yell across the cafeteria”….
PRICELESS!!!
August 27th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Amy says:
I read this post yesterday, and of course, as I was making my boys their eggs for breakfast this morning all I could think of was that I was “scrambling chicken embryos”. Thanks. I had toast.
So glad Caroline liked school (was there ever any doubt she would?). Her first day pics are adorable!!
August 27th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Lisa @ put-it-on-the-list says:
Wow, it’s no wonder your girl is so beautiful — she takes after BOTH her parents!
As for school food, mine is just as nutty as yours; he likes Sbisa. Can you imagine?
August 27th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Amie says:
New to your blog.
Love this post… had me crackin’ up, you are hilarious. And then tearing up for you cause that first day is just SO HARD! I might have gained 5 lbs from the emotional eating each time, and I have done it 3 times already and another 4(so far) to go. Heaven help me.
I am glad she had fun! What a doll! But please have a talk with her to prepare her that cafeteria meatloaf is just not the same as homemade, in case it’s on the menu in the future. I fear the dissapointment she will face.
Blessings!
Amie
August 27th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
DEb says:
Oh my…..you are one nice looking family!! Wow…that girli is CUUUUTTE!
August 27th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Dionna says:
What a cutie.
August 27th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Marilyn's Musings says:
I remember kindergarten I too cried…
Be thankful it is not college, that hurt worse than kindergarten….although at the time I couldn’t imagine anything hurting as much as letting my child go to kindergarten.
My oldest son turns 21 on Monday and he graduates college in May….booo hooo. It is so hard to let them go at any age.
I love your blog.
God Bless,
Marilyn
August 27th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
Mindy Truly says:
You are hilarious! I laugh HARD everytime I read your blog. Anyway love it. I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you this, but seriously freaking hilarious!
Thanks for the laughs,
Mindy
Dallas, TX
August 28th, 2008 at 1:23 am
Andi the WeevilMaw says:
Ok, I walked into school on meet the teachers night & was raising my hands to the roof and shouting woohoo! The principal & secretary cracked up, they know my weirdness, it’s a small town.
I never cried about the kids going to kindergarten. I was always so excited & proud for them. My first grader got in trouble for turning around in her lunchroom chair to talk to her best friend at the next table. But I think it was because she probably hadn’t put a bite in her mouth yet because of all the social butterflying!
And the title of this post reminds me of, a Christmas song. “So this is Christmas & what have we done…” “A very merry christmas & happy new year. Let’s hope it’s a good one without any tears” or something like that, not really sure, maybe by the Beetles? I don’t know, but now it’s stuck in my head! I think it’s the ADD that does it to me.
August 28th, 2008 at 8:44 am
Darlene says:
You went to the baby store and bought a new baby… that is so funny!
It was so good to meet you in San Antonio. I hate that the stupid little countdown timer was ticking away as we spoke because it just wasn’t enough time…it just wasn’t.
And then I didn’t even get a picture.
shucks.
Anyway, I am so happy that Caroline is having a great school experience. I didn’t even take pictures this year. Gasp!
I know. It’s a terrible thing to come out of a bloggers mouth.
I will tell you that my first grade son informed his teacher how very fortunate she was to have HIM in HER class this year.
We’re trying to work on his shyness.
August 28th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Michelle Bentham says:
P-REC-IOUS! I read it to my 16 year old daughter and we both laughed out loud at several things… 1. The Meatloaf, 2. The New Baby from the baby store, and 3. The way Caroline learned not to yell across the cafeteria!
She is adorable.
My son did nearly the same thing to me the first day of kinder. He walked in and we found his name on the table. He sat down, stretched his arms wide and looked up at me: “You can go now, Mom. I’ll be fine.”
Whew! That’s been 15 years ago!
A few months later he fell on the way out to the bus and the teacher put him on the bus because there was no obvious injury. By the time he hit the front door he said, “Mommy(Sob, Sob) I fell (sob) at school… (SOB, BAWL)” Now holding his forearm out to me. “I(SNIFF, SOBB) hurt my arm and (SOB, BAWL) I NEEEEVVVEEERRRR WWWAANNNNTTTT TO GO BACK AAAAAGGGGGAAAAIIINNN!” (Now, don’t panic, I’m sure Caroline will be fine and Justin was, too. He actually had a hairline fracture in his wrist that required a cast - but there were no lasting ill effects.)
However, the trauma and the big red cast left him undeterred - He loved school no matter how hard it was for him. Though his teacher could do little to appease my anger - put my baby on the bus with a broken arm!
Blessings.
August 28th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Karen says:
Does that backpack have cowboy boots on it???!!! That’s awesome, and so totally HER! Loved the comment about buying a new baby.
August 28th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
Amy says:
I am teary-eyed just reading this post and thinking of the day when I take Kaitlynn to kindergarten. I hope she is as excited about it as Caroline because I know I will be crying my eyes out. Thankfully I have some time to prepare myself as Kaitlynn is only 18 months old.
August 30th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
PJ says:
That first day of kindergarten!!! AND…I hope that you’re either prepared for a new arrival in about a year or less or somebody has had some snip-snip! ‘Cause watching cutie squishy babies on your little one’s first day of kindergarten is a Guarantee for adding a new family member!!!
August 31st, 2008 at 5:05 pm