First Day of School 2011

Saraya

She is delighted with school! She adores her teacher, and has already made a couple of friends. She got to do craft and other fun activities ("we are having a whole week of that Mama!"), ate all her lunch, got to read her own book from home during their afternoon "rest time" (big floor cushions and everything, hooray!), then finished her book after a celebratory afternoon tea once we got home. Fruit cake, watermelon and strawberries. We chatted in bed tonight about why boys are often silly about girls. I imagine this won't be the last time we talk about this! Anyway, she's gone to sleep one happy girl. :)

Elijah

Elijah surprised me this morning by being up at 6:15am, and standing by the door, fully clothed, all chores done, backpack on his back, by 6:45am! It was a long wait for him until it was time to go. :) He enjoyed his first day, popping his bag in his locker, sitting on the carpet with Mr Fern and all the kids and getting stuck into some play. He says he didn't talk to any other children, so I'm praying he will make some friends soon. He's such a quiet little boy, but I think school will ease him out of his shell a little more. His favourite time of the day today was Music Class. :)

William

Today was the first day ever that William and I have spent alone together. He enjoyed playing at Prep this morning, but was happy enough to head off with me into town. We went to his swimming lesson, dropped some forms off at his kindy (and had a little visit!), delivered some mail, picked up a second pair of school shorts for Saraya, had sandwiches at a cafe in town, did the grocery shopping and came home. We barely had time to unpack and hang some washing before heading out to pick the kids up!! Tomorrow will be quieter. :) He is delightful company and I know we will treasure this time together.

Thanks so much to you all for your encouragement and support during this time of change. It's been challenging, that's for sure. None of our children have ever been to child care, day care, kindergarten, preschool, or Prep before. Saraya did a year of grade 1 and a term of grade 2, but that is all we've encountered before in the way of out of home care.

One of the big upsides for me is that Thursdays and Fridays (Will's kindy days) will be my first real break from full time mothering in 8 and a half years.

I must admit, I'm excited!