The Night Before Kindergarten

I have been meaning to write this for a couple weeks, but I have been busy and honestly, overwhelmed with emotion.  It is not all sad by any means - just draining.

 

This is something we have been planning, praying over, anticipating for a long time now.  James and I both put a lot of thought into the school we chose for the kids.  We did not take that decision lightly.  The school is chosen, supplies are purchased and organized, new clothes are ready for the week.  Our girl is starting kindergarten. 

 

 

In one of my favorite blogs, this family has a tradition of a back to school dinner sometime before school starts with a theme for the year (usually based on Scripture).  I have loved the idea for so long, and I knew that this is one tradition that I wanted to begin with my family.  So... we held our first annual back to school dinner.  

 

This is our theme for the year. 



 

Ava got a special crown for the dinner with pictures of some of her favorites and the theme for the year.  Our menu included:

 

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Cheesy Potatoes (Ava's favorite)

Green Bean Bundles

Sourdough Rolls

Homemade Chocolate Cake

 

I wrote this letter for Ava in a special place, but I wanted to share here.  This is the best way I can put into words this new kindergarten experience--

Dear Ava,

There is a lot going through my head right now.  I am so excited for you.  I know the possibilities for you - discovering your passions, making lifelong friends, learning, reading, growing.  But I can't help but think too how much I am going to miss you.  I think of not being there if you are scared or if someone says something to hurt you.  I want to protect you just like I have done for the last five years.  I think that is being a mother - loving you so much it physically hurts.

 

But I want you to know that even though I am not there with you, I am with you.  I will at the front of the pick-up line waiting to hear your stories.  I will be at every assembly, game, play clapping my hardest for you.  I will always be your biggest cheerleader.

 

 

I know that you are a little nervous about starting school, but I want you to know that I know more than anything that you are going to soar. The best parts of my character have come from when I have stepped out on my own even though I was scared and learned that I am strong and capable. You will do that this year.

 

 

 

Ava - the possibilities are endless for you.  I can't wait to see what my creative, artistic, party-planning girl can do to that kindergarten classroom.  I can't wait to hear about all the shenanigans on the playground.  And I can't wait to hear about everything you are learning.  I loved school, and you are so much like me I know you are going to love it too.

 

Spread your wings girl  and show us all how it is done!

 

Love,

Mommy