Today was Emma's first day of preschool. She is 2-1/2, the same age at which I started Luke in preschool. Both times, I had very mixed emotions about it.
Before they go to school, you have great one-on-one time. I felt I had control over their early education and, honestly, it was just fun playing with them. But, I'm no early childhood education expert and I couldn't teach them the practical social skills like playing well with others or dealing with a school yard (well, preschool yard) bully.
One and a half years ago, I cried when we dropped Luke off at school. He cried the next two days! This time, I thought it would be different. I've seen the advances Luke has made in his months in preschool. He can recite the Pledge of Allegiance, recognize most letters and number and even write his own name. Preschool is good for children.
So, with Emma, since I know this, I won't cry, right?!
Wrong.
I couldn't help but shed a few tears as I watched Luke hold Emma's hand and walk her through the doors on her first day of preschool. Yes, they were tears of pride, but also tears shed for what has been lost. The baby, then toddler who I spent many mornings playing with is no longer.
Emma is a little girl now. I'm proud of her. But I'm going to miss our mornings together.
This morning, when Greg and I returned from dropping Luke and Emma off at school, our house seemed a bit too quiet and empty. How fast our babies grow up.
Enjoy every day!
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